A General Approach to Site‐Specific,Intramolecular C−H Functionalization Using Dithiocarbamates

Intramolecular hydrogen atom transfer is an established approach for the site‐specific functionalization of unactivated, aliphatic C?H bonds. Transformations using this strategy typically require unstable intermediates formed using strong oxidants and have mainly targeted C?H halogenations or intramolecular aminations. Herein, we report a site‐specific C?H functionalization that significantly increases the synthetic scope and convergency of reactions proceeding via intramolecular hydrogen atom transfer. Stable, isolable N‐dithiocarbamates are used as precursors to amidyl radicals formed via either light or radical initiation to efficiently deliver highly versatile alkyl dithiocarbamates across a wide range of complex structures.     

Site‐Selective Remote Radical C−H Functionalization of Unactivated C−H Bonds in Amides Using Sulfone Reagents

A general and practical strategy for remote site‐selective functionalization of unactivated aliphatic C?H bonds in various amides by radical chemistry is introduced. C?H bond functionalization is achieved by using the readily installed N‐allylsulfonyl moiety as an N‐radical precursor. The in situ generated N‐radical engages in intramolecular 1,5‐hydrogen atom transfer to generate a translocated C radical which is subsequently trapped with various sulfone reagents to afford the corresponding C?H functionalized amides. The generality of the approach is documented by the successful remote C?N₃, C?Cl, C?Br, C?SCF₃, C?SPh, and C?C bond formation. Unactivated tertiary and secondary C?H bonds, as well as activated primary C?H bonds, can be readily functionalized by this method.     

Alkynylation of C (O)–H Bonds Enabled by Photoredox‐Mediated Hydrogen‐Atom Transfer

The development of new hydrogen‐atom transfer (HAT) strategies within the framework of photoredox catalysis is highly appealing for its power to activate a desired C−H bond in the substrate leading to its selective functionalization. Reported here is the first photoredox‐mediated hydrogen‐atom transfer method for the efficient synthesis of ynones, ynamides, and ynoates with high regio‐ and chemoselectivity by direct functionalization of C (O)−H bonds. The broad synthetic application of this method has been demonstrated by the selective functionalization of C(O)−H bonds within complex molecular scaffolds.     

α‐Aminoxy‐Acid‐Auxiliary‐Enabled Intermolecular Radical γ‐C(sp3)−H Functionalization of Ketones

A method for site‐specific intermolecular γ‐C(sp³)?H functionalization of ketones has been developed using an α‐aminoxy acid auxiliary applying photoredox catalysis. Regioselective activation of an inert C?H bond is achieved by 1,5‐hydrogen atom abstraction by an oxidatively generated iminyl radical. Tertiary and secondary C‐radicals thus formed at the γ‐position of the imine functionality undergo radical conjugate addition to various Michael acceptors to provide, after reduction and imine hydrolysis, the corresponding γ‐functionalized ketones.     

Synthesis of Substituted 2‐Amino‐1,3‐oxazoles via Copper‐Catalyzed Oxidative Cyclization of Enamines and N,N‐Dialkyl Formamides

A facile synthesis of 2‐amino‐1,3‐oxazoles via Cu^I‐catalyzed oxidative cyclization of enamines and N ,N ‐dialkyl formamides has been developed. The reaction proceeds through an oxidative C−N bond formation, followed by an intramolecular C(sp²)−H bond functionalization/C−O cyclization in one pot. This protocol provides direct access to useful 2‐amino‐1,3‐oxazoles and features protecting‐group‐free nitrogen sources, readily available starting materials, a broad substrate scope and mild reaction conditions.     

Selective Hydrogen Atom Abstraction through Induced Bond Polarization: Direct α‐Arylation of Alcohols through Photoredox,HAT, and Nickel Catalysis

The combination of nickel metallaphotoredox catalysis, hydrogen atom transfer catalysis, and a Lewis acid activation mode, has led to the development of an arylation method for the selective functionalization of alcohol α‐hydroxy C−H bonds. This approach employs zinc‐mediated alcohol deprotonation to activate α‐hydroxy C−H bonds while simultaneously suppressing C−O bond formation by inhibiting the formation of nickel alkoxide species. The use of Zn‐based Lewis acids also deactivates other hydridic bonds such as α‐amino and α‐oxy C−H bonds. This approach facilitates rapid access to benzylic alcohols, an important motif in drug discovery. A 3‐step synthesis of the drug Prozac exemplifies the utility of this new method.     

Total Synthesis of Aplydactone by a Conformationally Controlled C−H Functionalization

A concise, protecting‐group‐free total synthesis of the unusual brominated sesquiterpene aplydactone is described. Our synthesis features a [2+2] photocycloaddition, a Wolff ring contraction, an unusual remote C−H functionalization to establish the highly strained tetracyclic core, and a hydrogen‐atom transfer (HAT) reaction to access the bromine‐containing stereocenter. A finely tuned conformation of the α‐diazoketone precursor is the key for the success of the late‐stage transannular C−H insertion to deliver a bridged six‐membered ring and a quaternary stereocenter (C6) between two quaternary carbon atoms (C1 and C7).     

Complementary Strategies for Directed C(sp3)−H Functionalization: A Comparison of Transition‐Metal‐Catalyzed Activation,Hydrogen Atom Transfer,and Carbene/Nitrene Transfer

The functionalization of C(sp³)?H bonds streamlines chemical synthesis by allowing the use of simple molecules and providing novel synthetic disconnections. Intensive recent efforts in the development of new reactions based on C?H functionalization have led to its wider adoption across a range of research areas. This Review discusses the strengths and weaknesses of three main approaches: transition‐metal‐catalyzed C?H activation, 1,n‐hydrogen atom transfer, and transition‐metal‐catalyzed carbene/nitrene transfer, for the directed functionalization of unactivated C(sp³)?H bonds. For each strategy, the scope, the reactivity of different C?H bonds, the position of the reacting C?H bonds relative to the directing group, and stereochemical outcomes are illustrated with examples in the literature. The aim of this Review is to provide guidance for the use of C?H functionalization reactions and inspire future research in this area.     

Enantioselective Copper(I)/Chiral Phosphoric Acid Catalyzed Intramolecular Amination of Allylic and Benzylic C−H Bonds

Radical‐involved enantioselective oxidative C?H bond functionalization by a hydrogen‐atom transfer (HAT) process has emerged as a promising method for accessing functionally diverse enantioenriched products, while asymmetric C(sp³)?H bond amination remains a formidable challenge. To address this problem, described herein is a dual Cu^I/chiral phosphoric acid (CPA) catalytic system for radical‐involved enantioselective intramolecular C(sp³)?H amination of not only allylic positions but also benzylic positions with broad substrate scope. The use of 4‐methoxy‐NHPI (NHPI=N‐hydroxyphthalimide) as a stable and chemoselective HAT mediator precursor is crucial for the fulfillment of this transformation. Preliminary mechanistic studies indicate that a crucial allylic or benzylic radical intermediate resulting from a HAT process is involved.     

N‐Centered Radical Directed Remote C−H Bond Functionalization via Hydrogen Atom Transfer

The N‐centered radical directed remote C?H bond functionalization via hydrogen‐atom‐transfer at distant sites has developed as an enormous potential tool for the organic synthetic chemists. Unactivated and remote secondary and tertiary, as well as selected primary C?H bonds, can be utilized for functionalization by following these methodologies. The synthesis of the heterocyclic scaffolds provides them extra attention for the modern days′ developments in this field of unactivated remote C?H bonds functionalizations.     

Photoredox‐Catalyzed Site‐Selective α‐C(sp3)−H Alkylation of Primary Amine Derivatives

The synthetic utility of tertiary amines to oxidatively generate α‐amino radicals is well established, however, primary amines remain challenging because of competitive side reactions. This report describes the site‐selective α‐functionalization of primary amine derivatives through the generation of α‐amino radical intermediates. Employing visible‐light photoredox catalysis, primary sulfonamides are coupled with electron‐deficient alkenes to efficiently and mildly construct C?C bonds. Interestingly, a divergence between intermolecular hydrogen‐atom transfer (HAT) catalysis and intramolecular [1,5] HAT was observed through precise manipulation of the protecting group. This dichotomy was leveraged to achieve excellent α/δ site‐selectivity.     

Ruthenium‐Catalyzed para‐Selective C−H Alkylation of Aniline Derivatives

The para ‐selective C−H alkylation of aniline derivatives furnished with a pyrimidine auxiliary is herein reported. This reaction is proposed to take place via an N−H‐activated cyclometalate formed in situ. Experimental and DFT mechanistic studies elucidate a dual role of the ruthenium catalyst. Here the ruthenium catalyst can undergo cyclometalation by N−H metalation (as opposed to C−H metalation in meta ‐selective processes) and form a redox active ruthenium species, to enable site‐selective radical addition at the para position.     

Supramolecular Recognition Allows Remote,Site‐Selective C−H Oxidation of Methylenic Sites in Linear Amines

Site‐selective C−H functionalization of aliphatic alkyl chains is a longstanding challenge in oxidation catalysis, given the comparable relative reactivity of the different methylenes. A supramolecular, bioinspired approach is described to address this challenge. A Mn complex able to catalyze C(sp³)‐H hydroxylation with H₂O₂ is equipped with 18‐benzocrown‐6 ether receptors that bind ammonium substrates via hydrogen bonding. Reversible pre‐association of protonated primary aliphatic amines with the crown ether selectively exposes remote positions (C8 and C9) to the oxidizing unit, resulting in a site‐selective oxidation. Remarkably, such control of selectivity retains its efficiency for a whole series of linear amines, overriding the intrinsic reactivity of C−H bonds, no matter the chain length.     

Iridium‐Catalyzed Direct C−H Amidation Polymerization: Step‐Growth Polymerization by C−N Bond Formation via C−H Activation to Give Fluorescent Polysulfonamides

We report a powerful strategy for activation of C−H bonds to produce polysulfonamides by an atom‐economical and green method using iridium‐catalyzed direct C−H amidation polymerization (DCAP). After screening various directing groups, additives, silver salts, concentrations, and temperatures to optimize DCAP, high‐molecular‐weight (up to 149 kDa) and defect‐free polysulfonamides were synthesized from various bis‐sulfonyl azides. Although these polymers do not have conventional fluorescent conjugated cores, they emit blue light with large Stokes shifts and high quantum yields upon photoexcitation owing to an excited‐state intramolecular proton‐transfer process.     

Regioselective Vinylation of Remote Unactivated C(sp3)−H Bonds: Access to Complex Fluoroalkylated Alkenes

Regioselective incorporation of a particular functional group into aliphatic sites by direct activation of unreactive C?H bonds is of great synthetic value. Despite advances in radical‐mediated functionalization of C(sp³)?H bonds by a hydrogen‐atom transfer process, the site‐selective vinylation of remote C(sp³)?H bonds still remains underexplored. Reported herein is a new protocol for the regioselective vinylation of unactivated C(sp³)?H bonds. The remote C(sp³)?H activation is promoted by a C‐centered radical instead of the commonly used N and O radicals. The reaction possesses high product diversity and synthetic efficiency, furnishing a plethora of synthetically valuable E alkenes bearing tri‐/di‐/mono‐fluoromethyl and perfluoroalkyl groups.     

Supramolecular Recognition Allows Remote,Site‐Selective C−H Oxidation of Methylenic Sites in Linear Amines

Site‐selective C−H functionalization of aliphatic alkyl chains is a longstanding challenge in oxidation catalysis, given the comparable relative reactivity of the different methylenes. A supramolecular, bioinspired approach is described to address this challenge. A Mn complex able to catalyze C(sp³)‐H hydroxylation with H₂O₂ is equipped with 18‐benzocrown‐6 ether receptors that bind ammonium substrates via hydrogen bonding. Reversible pre‐association of protonated primary aliphatic amines with the crown ether selectively exposes remote positions (C8 and C9) to the oxidizing unit, resulting in a site‐selective oxidation. Remarkably, such control of selectivity retains its efficiency for a whole series of linear amines, overriding the intrinsic reactivity of C−H bonds, no matter the chain length.     

trans‐Bis(dimethyl sulfoxide‐κO)bis(3‐oxo‐3,4‐dihydroquinoxaline‐2‐carboxylato‐κ2N1,O2)copper(II)

The title compound, [Cu(C₉H₅N₂O₃)₂(C₂H₆OS)₂], consists of octahedrally coordinated Cu^II ions, with the 3‐oxo‐3,4‐dihydroquinoxaline‐2‐carboxylate ligands acting in a bidentate manner [Cu—O = 1.9116 (14) Å and Cu—N = 2.1191 (16) Å] and a dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) molecule coordinated axially via the O atom [Cu—O = 2.336 (5) and 2.418 (7) Å for the major and minor disorder components, respectively]. The whole DMSO molecule exhibits positional disorder [0.62 (1):0.38 (1)]. The octahedron around the Cu^II atom, which lies on an inversion centre, is elongated in the axial direction, exhibiting a Jahn–Teller effect. The ligand exhibits tautomerization by H‐atom transfer from the hydroxyl group at position 3 to the N atom at position 4 of the quinoxaline ring of the ligand. The complex molecules are linked through an intermolecular N—H...O hydrogen bond [N...O = 2.838 (2) Å] formed between the quinoxaline NH group and a carboxylate O atom, and by a weak intermolecular C—H...O hydrogen bond [3.392 (11) Å] formed between a carboxylate O atom and a methyl C atom of the DMSO ligand. There is a weak intramolecular C—H...O hydrogen bond [3.065 (3) Å] formed between a benzene CH group and a carboxylate O atom.     

N‐tert‐Butyl‐N′‐[5‐cyano‐2‐(4‐methylphenoxy)phenylsulfonyl]urea,a new TXA2 receptor antagonist

The title compound, C₁₉H₂₁N₃O₄S, crystallizes in the space group P2/c with two molecules in the asymmetric unit. The conformation of both molecules is very similar and is mainly determined by an intramolecular N—H...O hydrogen bond between a urea N atom and a sulfonyl O atom. The O and second N atom of the urea groups are involved in dimer formation via N—H...O hydrogen bonds. The intramolecular hydrogen‐bonding motif and conformation of the C—SO₂—NH(C=O)—NH—C fragment are explored and compared using the Cambridge Structural Database and theoretical calculations. The crystal packing is characterized by π–π stacking between the 5‐cyanobenzene rings.     

Organocatalytic C−H Functionalization of Simple Alkanes

The direct functionalization of inert C(sp³)-H bonds to form carbon-carbon and carbon-heteroatom bonds offers vast potential for chemical synthesis and therefore receives increasing attention. At present, most successes come from strategies using metal catalysts/reagents or photo/electrochemical processes. The use of organocatalysis for this purpose remains scarce, especially when dealing with challenging C−H bonds such as those from simple alkanes. Here we disclose the first organocatalytic direct functionalization/acylation of inert C(sp³)-H bonds of completely unfunctionalized alkanes. Our approach involves N-heterocyclic carbene catalyst-mediated carbonyl radical intermediate generation and coupling with simple alkanes (through the corresponding alkyl radical intermediates generated via a hydrogen atom transfer process). Unreactive C−H bonds are widely present in fossil fuel feedstocks, commercially important organic polymers, and complex molecules such as natural products. Our present study shall inspire a new avenue for quick functionalization of these molecules under the light- and metal-free catalytic conditions.     

Remote Hydroxylation through Radical Translocation and Polar Crossover

Mild conditions are reported for the hydroxylation of aliphatic C? H bonds through radical translocation, oxidation to carbocation, and nucleophilic trapping with H₂O. This remote functionalization employs fac‐[Ir(ppy)₃] together with Tz^o sulfonate esters and sulfonamides to facilitate the site‐selective replacement of relatively inert C? H bonds with the more synthetically useful C? OH group. The hydroxylation of a range of substrates and the methoxylation of two substrates through 1,6‐ and 1,7‐hydrogen‐atom transfer are demonstrated. In addition, a synthesis of the antidepressant fluoxetine using remote hydroxylation as a key step is presented.