Synthesis of isoindolinones via a ruthenium-catalyzed cyclization of N-substituted benzamides with allylic alcohols.

N-Substituted aromatic and heteroaromatic amides reacted with substituted allylic alcohols in the presence of a ruthenium catalyst, AgSbF6 and a Cu(OAc)2·H2O oxidant, affording 3-substituted isoindolinone derivatives with diverse substituents in good to excellent yields. A possible reaction mechanism involving a five-membered ruthenacycle intermediate was proposed and strongly supported by experimental evidence.