An NHC-catalyzed asymmetric [4 + 2] annulation of isatins and α,β-unsaturated carboxylic acids bearing γ-H gave spirocyclic oxindole–dihydropyranones successfully via an in situ activation strategy. This protocol featured easy availability of raw materials, good yields and excellent enantioselectivities (up to 99% ee).
![Graphical abstract: N-Heterocyclic carbene-catalyzed [4 + 2] cyclization of α,β-unsaturated carboxylic acids bearing γ-H with isatins: an enantioselective synthesis of spirocyclic oxindole–dihydropyranones](http://hg.y866.cn/compound/lib/scimg/usr/1/C5OB02160J.jpg)