InBr3-catalyzed glycosidation of glycals with arylamines: an alternative approach to access 4-aminocyclopent-2-enones.

To turn side products into major products, a novel strategy to access biologically active 4-aminocyclopent-2-enones was developed. These compounds were originally identified as side products but became major products when 3,5-dimethylpyran-3,4-diol 7a was used as the substrate and 30% InBr(3) as the catalyst. Aryl- or heteroarylamines as well as variously substituted glycals can be used in this reaction, and the corresponding 4-aminocyclopent-2-enones were obtained in moderate to good yields. These compounds can be further used to prepare 4-aminocarbocyclic nucleosides.