Stereoselective three-component synthesis of trans-endo-decahydroquinolin-4-one derivatives from aldehydes, aniline, and acetylcyclohexene.

The diastereoselective synthesis of trans-endo-decahydroquinolin-4-one (4) via a three-component reaction of aldehydes (1), anilines (2), and 1-acetylcyclohexene (3) in the presence of iodine in a one-pot reaction at room temperature is described. The short reaction time, easy workup, excellent yield, and mild reaction conditions make this novel annulation strategy both practical and attractive.