Benzo[f]isoindole derivatives from cycloaddition reaction of 2,4-dimethylpyrimido[2,1-a]isoindole and maleimides

In contrast to the previously reported results in the reaction of maleimides with pyrido2,1-a]isoindole and 1,2-bis substituted isoindoles, the reaction between 2,4-dimethylpyrimido2,1-a]isoindole and maleimides leads to the formation of unusual products. Their structure is assessed by NMR and mass spectrometry. An original reaction pathway is proposed. The high quantum yields observed in fluorescence opens the route to applications as biological probes. To cite this article: Z.V. Voitenko et al., C. R. Chimie 9 (2006).