Gold-catalyzed synthesis of isoquinolines via intramolecular cyclization of 2-alkynyl benzyl azides

Intramolecular cyclization of 2-alkynyl benzyl azides in the presence of AuCl3 and AgSbF6 in THF under a pressured vial at 100 degrees C gives the corresponding isoquinolines in good yields. Similarly, the five-membered analogs afford the corresponding isoquinolines. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.