An efficient regioselective synthesis of functionalized biphenyls via sequential reactions of aromatic aldehydes and β-keto esters or ketones

Knoevenagel/Michael/Aldol reactions of aromatic aldehydes and β-keto esters/ketones in a sequential manner yielded intermediate cyclohexanones in good yields. The latter, on oxidative aromatization with iodine, afforded functionalized biphenyls with at least one phenolic hydroxyl in moderate to good yields.

Graphical abstractA simple method for the synthesis of biphenyls has been described using iodine/methanol as an oxidative reagent.Download full-size image