A domino amino-lactonisation of arylidene pyruvic acids (APAs) by amines in aqueous media

The aqueous reaction of arylidene pyruvic acids (APAs) with arylamines or urea under refluxing conditions leading to the formation of 3-(amino)-5-aryl-furan-2(5H)-one, without catalyst, is described. Also (E)-4-(4-chlorophenyl)-2-oxobut-3-enoic acid reacts with 1,2-phenylenediamine to form (E)-3-(4-chlorostyryl)quinoxalin-2(1H)-one under the same conditions. Excellent yields were observed after filtration of the product and washing with brine solution.