Tf O-Catalyzed Tandem Cyclization/Trifluoromethylselenolation of Alkynes for Synthesis of CF Se-Containing Heterocycles.

Herein, the tandem synthesis of various CF Se-containing heterocyclic compounds has been developed, using Tf O as the catalyst and trifluoromethyl selenoxides as the electrophilic trifluoromethylselenolation reagents. This process is characterized by its mild conditions, ease of operation, and good functional group compatibility. A variety of alkynes could be transferred into CF Se-containing indoles, benzofurans, benzothiophenes, isoquinolines and chromenes in good yields. A key step involving the formation of the electrophilic CF Se species was proposed.