Access to Isoquinolin-1(2H)-ones and Pyridones by Cobalt-Catalyzed Oxidative Annulation of Amides with Allenes

A cobalt-catalyzed oxidative annulation of amides with allenes to provide isoquinolin-1(2H)-ones and pyridones was explored. The new catalytic reaction proceeded through aminoquinolinedirected C-H activation followed by unusual regioselective insertion, annulation, and isomerization. A variety of functionalized amides and allenes were converted into the corresponding products under mild reaction conditions.