One-pot synthesis of macrocycles by a tandem three-component reaction and intramolecular [3+2] cycloaddition.

By combining three appropriately designed simple substrates, a programmed sequence involving an alpha-isocyano acetamide-based three-component reaction followed by a copper-catalyzed intramolecular [3+2] cycloaddition of alkyne and azide took place to afford complex macrocycles in moderate to good yields. One macrocycle and two heterocycles were produced with concurrent formation of five chemical bonds in this operationally simple process.