Rh(iii)-catalyzed C-H activation reactions forming 1H-isoindoles containing a quaternary carbon center from aryl ketones or benzylamines.

Rh(iii)/Cu(OAc)2 catalyzed, one-pot reactions of aryl ketones, acrylate esters and ammonium acetate or α-substituted benzylamines under microwave irradiation conditions produce 1H-isoindoles bearing a quarternary carbon center.