Preparation of quinazolino[3,2-a]quinazolines via a palladium-catalyzed three-component reaction of carbodiimide, isocyanide, and amine.

A palladium-catalyzed three-component reaction of bis-(2-iodoaryl)carbodiimide, isocyanide, and amine gives rise to quinazolino[3,2-a]quinazolines and related compounds in good yields. Multi-bonds are formed in one pot through nucleophilic attack, isocyanide insertion, and C-N coupling during the reaction process.