Supported gold-catalyzed and ammonia-promoted selective synthesis of quinazolines in aqueous media

A highly efficient and selective nitrogen source-promoted reaction for the synthesis of 2,4-disubstituted quinazolines from o-nitroacetophenones and alcohols catalyzed by Au/TiO2 has been developed via a hydrogen-transfer strategy. This reaction has good tolerance to air and water, a wide substrate scope, and represents a new avenue for practical multiple C N bond formation. More importantly, no additional additive, oxidant and reductant are required in the reaction and the catalyst can be recovered and reused readily.