An efficient three-component reaction involving [3 + 1 + 1] furannulation leading to furanonaphthoquinones in water

An efficient and clean green synthesis of highly substituted linear naphtho2,3-b]-furan-4,9-dione derivatives, starting from 2-hydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone, alkyl isocyanides and a variety of aldehydes, is described. This new method provides the first example of an efficient regioselective synthetic method for the synthesis of linear naphtho2,3-b]-furan-4,9-dione ring systems by formation of three bonds. This 3 + 1 + 1] furannulation strategy affords furanonaphthoquinones in moderate to high yields, using water as a cheap, non-toxic, environmentally friendly solvent, in a one-step reaction, without the need of complicated work-up procedures. Correspondence: Mohammad Bagher Teimouri, Petrochemical Department, Iran Polymer and Petrochemical Institute, P.O. Box 14965-115, Tehran, Iran.