Synthesis of Naphthalene Amino Esters by the Blaise Reaction of o-Alkynylarenenitriles

The action of a Reformatsky reagent on o-alkynylarenenitriles provides a convenient access to naphthalene amino esters via tandem 6-endo-dig carbannulation of in situ generated Blaise reaction intermediates. The products are formed in moderate to good yields with high chemo- and regioselectivity.