A Stereoselective Route to Tetrahydrobenzoxazepines and Tetrahydrobenzodiazepines via Ring-Opening and Aza-Michael Addition of Activated Aziridines with 2-Hydroxyphenyl and 2-Aminophenyl Acrylates

A simple and efficient synthetic route to 2,3,4,5-tetrahydrobenzoxazepines and -benzodiazepines bearing easily functionalizable appendages has been developed by ring-opening of activated aziridines with 2-hydroxyphenyl acrylates and 2-aminophenyl acrylate, respectively, and subsequent intramolecular C-N bond formation through palladium-catalyzed aza-Michael reaction. The straightforward synthetic approach delivers the desired molecular scaffolds in high yields (up to 82%) with excellent stereoselectivity (ee up to 94%).