Synthesis of multicyclic pyridine and quinoline derivatives via intramolecular C-H bond functionalization.

An efficient method is reported for the preparation of multicyclic pyridines and quinolines by a rhodium-catalyzed intramolecular C-H bond functionalization process. The method shows good scope for branched and unbranched alkyl substituents on the pyridine ring and at the R position of the tethered alkene group. Starting materials capable of undergoing olefin isomerization to provide terminal 1,1-disubstituted alkenes also proved to be effective substrates.