A distinct approach for the rapid synthesis of homoallylic amines starting directly from nitro compounds in water

Three-component reactions of nitroarenes, benzaldehydes, and allyltributylstannane using indium in dilute aqueous HCl at room temperature afford the corresponding homoallylic amines in high yields within 5-10 min. The conversion in one-pot synthesis involves the following steps: (i) reduction of nitro compounds to amines, (ii) formation of imines from amines and aldehydes, and (iii) allylation of imines.