Synthesis of arylidenepyruvic amide derivatives via Ugi-four component condensation

Arylidenepyruvic acids (APAs) have been successfully employed in an Ugi-four component condensation reaction which yielded polyfunctional amides. Condensation of various APAs, aldehydes, amines, and isocyanides at room temperature in 96% ethanol as a green solvent proceeded in good yields. The extension of the reaction to diamines, formaldehyde, and isocyanides to form more complex molecules is also reported. These novel products may have potential in various pharmaceutical applications. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.