Tandem Reduction + Cyclization of Ortho-Substituted Cinnamic Esters

Conjugate reduction of ortho-substituted cinnamic esters by Stryker’s reagent to form copper enolates, followed by intramolecular aldol-type cyclization, successfully generated indane and tetralin rings in one pot efficiently. This tandem reaction is generally diastereoselective and provides good yields.