Rh()-catalyzed synthesis of 5-isochromeno[3,4-]indolizines from 4-diazoisochroman-3-imines and pyridines

A Rh( ii )-catalyzed (3 + 2) annulation of pyridines with 4-diazoisochroman-3-imines leading to 5 H -isochromeno[3,4- b ]indolizines is presented. This methodology provides straightforward access to a wide variety of substituted 5 H -isochromeno[3,4- b ]indolizines with moderate to good yields (up to 84%) and complete regioselectivity. A Rh( ii )-catalyzed (3 + 2) annulation of pyridines with 4-diazoisochroman-3-imines furnished 5 H -isochromeno[3,4- b ]indolizines with moderate to good yields and complete regioselectivity.