A modification of the Gassman oxindole synthesis is described that pro
ceeds from anilines and ethyl (methylsulfinyl)acelate, using oxalyl ch
loride to activate the sulfoxide to facilitate the formation of the ke
y N - S bonded intermediate. This procedure is particularly convenient
for reactions carried out on smaller scales and for anilines that are
susceptible to electrophilic halogenation. Copyright (C) 1996 Elsevie
r Science Ltd