Oxone-Promoted Cyclization/Hydrolysis of 1,5-Enenitriles Initiated via Direct C(sp3)–H Oxidative Functionalization: Access to Pyrrolidine-2,4-diones

Abstract A novel method for assembling pyrrolidine-2,4-diones from 1,5-enenitriles and acetone/acetonitrile via a cyclization/hydrolysis has been established under metal-catalyst- and base-free conditions, with Oxone as a green oxidant and H2O as an additive at 90–110 ℃. This strategy is highlighted by cyclization/hydrolysis of alkyl cyanides, achieving direct C(sp3)–H oxidative functionalization, and giving full conversion of the substrates with excellent functional group compatibility.