Synthesis of 3,3-disubstituted oxindoles by organoselenium-induced radical cyclizations of N-arylacrylamides

A simple and practical approach to oxindole derivatives via organoselenium-induced radical cyclizations of N-arylacrylamides has been developed. This method provides a convenient access to a variety of selenium-containing oxindoles in good to excellent yields under relatively mild reaction conditions. As one of its notable features, the radical process allows for the direct formation of a Se-C bond and the construction of a oxindole ring in one reaction.