Twofold C-H functionalization: palladium-catalyzed ortho arylation of anilides

The ortho arylation of anilides to form biphenyls via a twofold C-H functionalization/C-C bond-forming process is described. The oxidative coupling takes place in the presence of 5-10 mol % of Pd(OAc)2, 10-20 mol % of DMSO, and 4-11 equiv of the aryl substrate in TFA under an oxygen atmosphere. No metal-containing cocatalyst is required.