Synthesis of Quinolines via Rh(III)-Catalyzed Oxidative Annulation of Pyridines.

Selective synthesis of quinolines has been achieved via oxidative annulation of functionalized pyridines with two alkyne molecules under Rh(III)-catalyzed cascade C-H activation of pyridines using Cu(OAc)2 as an oxidant. The selectivity of this reaction is oxidant-dependent, particularly on the anion of the oxidant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]