Synthesis of functionalized cyclohexenone core of welwitindolinones via rhodium-catalyzed [5 + 1] cycloaddition

The cyclohexenone core of welwitindolinones was synthesized by a Rh(I)-catalyzed [5 + 1]-cycloaddition of an allenylcyclopropane with CO. A pentasubstituted cyclopropane was prepared successfully by a Rh(II)-catalyzed intramolecular cyclopropanation of alkenes with chlorodiazoacetates.