Stereoselective [4+3]-Cycloaddition of 2-Amino-β-Nitrostyrenes with Azaoxyallyl Cations to Access Functionalized 1,4-Benzodiazepin-3-Ones

The 1,4-benzodiazepine structural framework is a fascinating element commonly found in biologically active and pharmaceutically relevant compounds. A highly efficient method for synthesizing 1,4-benzodiazepin-3-ones is described, involving a [4+3]-cycloaddition reaction between 2-amino-β-nitrostyrenes and α-bromohydroxamate, with Cs2CO3 used as a base. This process yielded the desired 1,4-benzodiazepines in good yields. Furthermore, an organocatalytic asymmetric [4+3]-cycloaddition was successfully accomplished using a bifunctional squaramide-based catalyst. This approach enabled the enantioselective synthesis of chiral 1,4-benzodiazepines with commendable yields and moderate enantioselectivities, reaching up to 80% yield and 72% ee.