Metal complex catalysis in the synthesis of quinolines

•Catalytic methods for the synthesis of quinolines are integrated and discussed.•Ru-complexes are highly effective catalysts for the synthesis of quinolines.•Fe-complexes catalyze reactions of anilines with alcohols to give quinolines.•Metal complex catalysis widens the substrate range in the synthesis of quinolines.

This review integrates and gives analysis of published data about the synthesis of quinolines by the reactions of anilines with aldehydes, alkenes, alkynes, alkyl amines, allyl amines, alcohols, 1,2-diols, and 1,3-diols using metal complex catalysts based on Ru, Pt, Rh, Pd, Ir, In, Mo, Co, Bi, Ga, Sc, Hf, Ti, Fe, Ni, Au, Ag, Cu, and Ln. Mechanistic aspects of the catalytic reactions are considered and discussed in detail.

Graphical abstractThis review summarizes published data about the synthesis of quinolines by the reactions of anilines with aldehydes, alkenes, alkynes, alkyl amines, allyl amines, alcohols, 1,2-diols, and 1,3-diols using metal complex catalysts. Mechanistic aspects of the catalytic reactions are considered in detail.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide