The Povarov Reaction: A Versatile Method to Synthesize Tetrahydroquinolines, Quinolines and Julolidines

Abstract The multicomponent Povarov reaction represents a powerful approach for the construction of substances containing N-heterocyclic frameworks. By using the Povarov reaction, in addition to accessing tetrahydroquinolines, quinolines and julolidines in a single step, it is possible to form the following new bonds: two Csp 3–Csp 3 and one Csp 3–Nsp 3, two Csp 2–Csp 2 and one Csp 2–Nsp 2, and four Csp 3–Csp 3 and two Csp 3–Nsp 1, respectively. This short review discusses the main features of the Povarov reaction, including its mechanism, the reaction scope by employing different catalysts and substrates, as well as stereoselective versions. 1 Introduction 2 Mechanism of the Povarov Reaction 3 Tetrahydroquinolines 4 Quinolines 5 Julolidines 6 Concluding Remarks