Facile synthesis of 2,3-disubstituted benzofurans via DBU-promoted intramolecular annulation of ortho oxyether aroylformates.

A facile synthesis of 2,3-disubstituted benzofurans from ortho oxyether aroylformates has been developed. Under the mediation of DBU, the intramolecular annulation of ortho oxyether aroylformates proceeds smoothly to provide the corresponding 2,3-disubstituted benzofurans in moderate to good yields under mild conditions. Furthermore, a one-pot two-step synthesis of 2,3-disubstituted benzofurans has also been demonstrated from readily available ortho hydroxy aroylformates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]