An organocatalytic multi-molecular cascade reaction for the synthesis of acetate functionalized 1,4-dihydropyridines

An organocatalytic cascade reaction involving the incorporation of alkyl propiolates and primary amines has been realized for the facile synthesis of 1,4-dihydropyridines (1,4-DHPs) bearing a C4 acetate fragment. This method allows rapid and atom economical generation of N-aryl, N-alkyl, and NH 1,4-DHPs with moderate to excellent yields.