An efficient three-component synthesis of highly functionalized tetrahydroacenaphtho[1,2-b]indolone derivatives catalyzed by L-proline.

An efficient and diastereoselective synthetic procedure for highly functionalized tetrahydroacenaphtho[1,2-b]indolone derivatives was successfully developed by the three-component reaction of acenaphthequinone, enaminones, and barbituric acid in the presence of a catalytic amount of L-proline. This method has the advantages of convenient operation, excellent yields, mild reaction conditions, and environmental friendliness.