A synthesis of (arylthio-ethylidene)indolin-2-ones via S-arylation of oxoindolin-ethanethiolates with aryl halides

In recent years, Ullmann-type reactions have grown into a versatile tool for access to C−X (X = C, N, O, S, etc.) bonds [1]. Although several palladium, nickel, and cobaltcatalysts have proven to be highly effective in such coupling processes [2], copper reagents are favorable catalytic systems for C-X bond-forming reactions. [3]. Among various cross-coupling reactions, S-arylation is comparatively less studied.Herein, we report a novel protocol for the synthesis of (Z/E)-3-[2-oxo-2-aryl-1- (arylthio)ethylidene]indolin-2-ones by a one-pot reaction of 1-aryl-2-thiocyanatoethan- 1-ones, isatin, and aryl halides in DMF. (Fig. 1). The structures of products were characterized by their IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and mass spectral data. Various advantages of these transformations will be presented and discussed.