Synthesis of Pyridinone-Fused [2.2]Paracyclophane by Ruthenium(II)-Catalyzed C–H Activation

Nitrogen-containing heterocycle-fused [2.2]paracyclophanes are a class of important molecules in a wide range of areas. Herein, we report a straightforward synthesis of pyridinone-fused [2.2]paracyclophanes through a ruthenium(II)-catalyzed C–H activation of N-methoxy [2.2]paracyclophanecarboxamide with alkynes. Optically pure products can be conveniently prepared by utilizing optically pure substrates instead. The product can be facilely elaborated into pyridine-fused [2.2]paracyclophanes with varied substituents. Preliminary mechanistic studies have been carried out, and a plausible catalytic cycle is proposed.