Intramolecular Baylis-Hillman reaction: Synthesis of heterocyclic molecules

Abstract

The Baylis-Hillman (BH) [also known as the Morita-Baylis-Hillman (MBH)] reaction is a versatile atom-economic C-C bond forming reaction between the á-position of activated alkenes and electrophiles under the influence of a catalyst and provides interesting classes of densely functionalized molecules. Its intramolecular version is yet another fascinating reaction by itself, producing various carbocylic and heterocyclic compounds of synthetic and medicinal relevance. Applications of the intramolecular Baylis-Hillman reaction in obtaining heterocyclic molecules of different ring sizes and also to the synthesis of various natural products/bioactive compounds containing heterocyclic frameworks are presented in this brief review.