Pd(II)-catalyzed one-pot, three-step route for the synthesis of unsymmetrical acridines.

Unsymmetric acridines are synthesized via a one-pot amination/cyclization/aromatization reaction for the first time. With Pd(OAc)2-X-Phos as the catalyst, a series of unsymmetric acridines are obtained in moderate to excellent yields (up to 99% yield). Meanwhile, the diphenylamine intermediate could be isolated, which is evidence of the domino process.