Direct enantioselective Brønsted acid catalyzed N-acyliminium cyclization cascades of tryptamines and ketoacids

A direct enantio- and diastereoselective N-acyliminium cyclization cascade through chiral phosphoric acid catalyzed condensation of tryptamines with γ- and δ-ketoacid derivatives to provide architecturally complex heterocycles has been developed. The reaction is technically simple to perform, atom-efficient, and broad in scope. Employing 10 mol % of (R)-BINOL derived chiral phosphoric acids in refluxing toluene allowed the polycyclic product materials to be generated in good yields (53-99%) and moderate to high enantioselectivities (68-98% ee).     

Divergent Coupling of Benzocyclobutenones with Indoles via C−H and C−C Activations

Highly selective divergent coupling reactions of benzocyclobutenones and indoles, in which the chemoselectivity is controlled by catalysts, are reported herein. The substrates undergo C2(indole)–C8(benzocyclobutenone) coupling to produce benzylated indoles and benzo[b]carbazoles in the Ni- and Ru-catalyzed reactions. A completely different selectivity pattern C2(indole)–C2(benzocyclobutenone) coupling to form arylated indoles is observed in the Rh-catalyzed reaction. Preliminary mechanistic studies suggest C−H and C−C activations in the reaction pathway. Synthetic utility of this protocol is demonstrated by the selective synthesis of three different types of carbazoles from the representative products.     

Intermolecular Carbophosphination of Alkynes with Phosphole Oxides via Ni−Al Bimetal-Catalyzed C−P Bond Activation

Intermolecular carbophosphination reaction of alkynes or alkenes with unreactive C−P bonds remains an elusive challenge. Herein, we used a Ni−Al bimetallic catalyst to realize an intermolecular carbophosphination reaction of alkynes with 5-membered phosphole oxides, providing a series of 7-membered phosphepines in up to 94 % yield.     

Mechanism and Origin of MAD-Induced Ni/N-Heterocyclic Carbene-Catalyzed Regio- and Enantioselective C−H Cyclization of Pyridines with Alkenes

This work presents a DFT-based computational study on the regio- and enantioselective C−H functionalization of pyridines with alkenes at the relatively unreactive C4-position, which was successfully achieved by Shi et al. [J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2019 , 141, 5628–5634] using Ni⁰/N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) catalysis under the assistance of an aluminum-based Lewis acid additive (2,6-tBu₂-4-Me-C₆H₂O)₂AlMe (MAD). The calculations indicate that the selective functionalization involves a three-step mechanism in which a unique H-migration assisted oxidation metalation (HMAOM) step is identified as the rate- and enantioselectivity-determining step. The newly proposed mechanism can well rationalize the experimental observation that the preferred product is the endo-type (vs. exo-type), R-configuration (vs. S-configuration) product at the C4 (vs. C2) position, and also unveil the reasons that the NHC ligand and the MAD additive can facilitate the reaction.     

Rational Development of Remote C−H Functionalization of Biphenyl: Experimental and Computational Studies

A simple and efficient nitrile-directed meta-C−H olefination, acetoxylation, and iodination of biaryl compounds is reported. Compared to the previous approach of installing a complex U-shaped template to achieve a molecular U-turn and assemble the large-sized cyclophane transition state for the remote C−H activation, a synthetically useful phenyl nitrile functional group could also direct remote meta-C−H activation. This reaction provides a useful method for the modification of biaryl compounds because the nitrile group can be readily converted to amines, acids, amides, or other heterocycles. Notably, the remote meta-selectivity of biphenylnitriles could not be expected from previous results with a macrocyclophane nitrile template. DFT computational studies show that a ligand-containing Pd–Ag heterodimeric transition state (TS) favors the desired remote meta-selectivity. Control experiments demonstrate the directing effect of the nitrile group and exclude the possibility of non-directed meta-C−H activation. Substituted 2-pyridone ligands were found to be key in assisting the cleavage of the meta-C−H bond in the concerted metalation–deprotonation (CMD) process.     

RhIII-Catalyzed C6-Selective Oxidative C−H/C−H Crosscoupling of 2-Pyridones with Thiophenes

A rhodium(III)-catalyzed C6-selective dehydrogenative cross-coupling of 2-pyridones with thiophenes was developed for the synthesis of 6-thiophenyl pyridin-2(1H)-one derivatives. In this reaction, the excellent site selectivity was controlled by the 2-pyridyl directing group on the nitrogen of the pyridone ring. Control experiments indicated that the N-pyridyl was essential for the transformation. To the best of our knowledge, this procedure is the first successful example of the direct C6 heteroarylation of 2-pyridones with electron-rich thiophene derivatives. 4-Pyridone was also used as substrate to generate the corresponding C2 heteroarylated product. Moreover, this pyridyl directing group was readily removable to generate the biheteroaryl structures with a free N−H group.     

Magnetic structure of Fe−Si−Al films implanted with Al and N ions

Changes in the magnetic structure of Fe–Si–Al films due to Al and N ion implantation were studied by⁵⁷Fe Conversion Electron Mössbauer Spectrometry (CEMS). The peaks of the magnetic sextets due to the crystalline films became broader by implantation with 5×10¹⁶ Al/cm², suggesting the formation of amorphous phases. In the CEM spectrum of one sample with large grains implanted with 1×10¹⁷ Al/cm² a crystalline -Fe phase appeared. N implantation with the same dose did not amorphize the sample but the components with high magnetic hyperfine fields were enhanced.     

Enantio- and Regioselective Electrooxidative Cobalt-Catalyzed C−H/N−H Annulation with Alkenes

In recent years, the merging of electrosynthesis with 3d metal catalyzed C−H activation has emerged as a sustainable and powerful technique in organic synthesis. Despite the impressive advantages, the development of an enantioselective version remains elusive and poses a daunting challenge. Herein, we report the first electrooxidative cobalt-catalyzed enantio- and regioselective C−H/N−H annulation with olefins using an undivided cell at room temperature (up to 99 % ee). ^tBu-Salox, a rationally designed Salox ligand bearing a bulky tert-butyl group at the ortho-position of phenol, was found to be crucial for this asymmetric annulation reaction. A strong cooperative effect between ^tBu-Salox and 3,4,5-trichloropyridine enabled the highly enantio- and regioselective C−H annulation with the more challenging α-olefins without secondary bond interactions (up to 96 % ee and 97 : 3 rr). Cyclovoltametric studies, and the preparation, characterization, and transformation of cobaltacycle intermediates shed light on the mechanism of this reaction.     

Direct Trifluoromethylselenolation and Fluoroalkylselenolation of C−H Bonds: Recent Advances in Reagents Development and Reactions

Due to their high lipophilicity and strong electron-withdrawing property, more and more attention has been paid to introducing trifluoromethylseleno and fluoroalkylseleno moieties into organic molecules. In this short review, we categorize the synthesis of compounds that combine selenium and fluorinated moieties into two main types: trifluoromethylselenolation (CF₃Se) and fluoroalkylselenolation (R_fSe, except CF₃Se). This review aims to provide a summary of the recent advances in direct C−H trifluoromethylselenolation and fluoroalkylselenolation from the synthesis of trifluoromethylselenolation and fluoroalkylselenolation reagents to their application. Based on the method of how the R_fSe group was introduced, the main content is divided into three parts: transition-metal-free reactions, transition-metal-mediated/catalyzed reactions and photo-catalyzed reactions. The general substrate scope, mechanism and limitations would also be discussed so that we hope the review will serve as an inspiration for further research in this appealing research field.     

Catalytic C−H/C−F Coupling of Azoles and Acyl Fluorides

A method for the palladium/copper-catalyzed direct acylation of azoles with acyl fluorides is described. This study reports the first examples of acyl fluorides being used as acylation reagents in transition-metal-catalyzed aromatic C−H bond functionalization reactions. Depending on the reaction temperature, decarbonylative coupling may also occur. Mechanistic studies suggest that the cleavage of the aromatic C−H bond, promoted by a copper-phosphine species, is not the rate-limiting step of this acylation.     

Triphyrin catalyzed direct C–H arylation of benzene with aryl halides

Transition-metal free direct C–H arylation of benzene with aryl halides was achieved by meso-aryl-substituted [14]triphyrins(2.1.1) catalysts in an air atmosphere. Various aryl halides underwent successful direct C–H arylation of benzene to give moderate to high yields of biaryls. A radical mechanism is proposed for this triphyrin catalyzed C–H arylation reaction.     

Triethylaluminum-Based Ferrocenylalanes. Synthesis and Crystal Structure of (η5−C5H5)Fe[η5−C5H4Al2(C2H5)4Cl]

Abstract

The trietheylaluminum based ferrocenylalane (η⁵?C₅H₅)Fe[η⁵?C₅H₄Al₂(C₂H₅)₄Cl] was prepared from the reaction of triethylaluminum with chloromercuriferrocene in toluene and characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction. The compound crystallizes in the triclinic space group P 1 with unit cell dimensions a = 9.353(3) Å, b = 10.281(7) Å, c = 11.599(9) Å, α = 79.64(7)°, β = 69.41(6)°, γ = 84.33(4)°, and Z = 2 for D_c = 1.27 g cm^?3. Full-matrix least-squares refinement has led to a final R factor of 0.068 based on 1866 independent observed reflections. The two diethylaluminum units are bridged by a chlorine atom and one carbon atom of a cyclopentadienyl group, thus forming an Al-Cl-Al-C ring. The four-membered ring is planar to within 0.02 Å. The Al-Cl distances are 2.404(4) Å and 2.266(5) Å. The Al-Cl-Al angle is 78.9(1)° while the Al-C-Al angle is 91.3(4)°. No significant aluminum-iron interaction is observed (Al… Fe = 3.137(4) Å).     

Dienyl esters synthesis: Palladium-catalyzed C–H olefination of electron-deficient alkenes with allenoates

The palladium(II)-catalyzed direct oxidative C–H olefination of readily available N-tosylacrylamides and allenoates for the synthesis of dienyl esters is described. The amide and ester moieties both act as the directing groups for the regio- and the stereo-controlled C–H functionalization/cyclization, which was proved by DFT calculations. Molecular oxygen was used as the terminal oxidant in the approach, rendering the reaction more sustainable.     

KMnO4-mediated direct C2-selective C−H arylation of quinoline N-oxides with aromatic hydrazines

An efficient protocol for the synthesis of 2-arylquinoline N-oxides has been developed via KMnO₄-mediated cross-coupling reaction of quinoline N-oxides with aromatic hydrazines in moderated to good yields. The reactions proceeded efficiently over a broad range of substrates with excellent regioselectivity and functional group tolerance.     

Metal-free remote oxidative benzylic C−H amination of 4-methylanilides with N-fluorobenzenesulfonimide

A metal-free remote oxidative benzylic C?H amination of 4-methylanilides with N-fluorobenzenesulfonimide was reported. The reaction was promoted by a hypervalent iodine reagent and can be handled under mild and neutral conditions, providing the highly regioselective benzylic C?H amination products even with multi-substituted 4-methylanilides. It provided a novel and facile method for the construction of C(sp³)–N bonds.     

Diastereoselective Double C−H Functionalization of Chiral Ferrocenes with Heteroaromatics

Diastereoselective double C−H heteroarylation of chiral ferrocenes provides valuable compounds with multiple functionalities using mild reaction conditions and simple reagents. Pd-Complexes with chiral mono-protected amino acids afforded corresponding heteroarylated ferrocenyl amines in good yields and high diastereomeric purities. In this way, a variety of indole, thiophene, pyrrole, or furan substituents were introduced to the ferrocene moiety. Furthermore, a range of relevant functional groups, for example ketone, ester, chloro, nitro, or silyl, are tolerated by this method. An alternative combination of amino acid and ferrocenyl amine configurations was leveraged to provide the complementary diastereomeric products. The products of C−H heteroarylation can be transformed into corresponding phosphines. Absolute configurations of CH-activation products were confirmed by the combination of X-ray crystallographic analysis and CD spectroscopy. ¹⁹F NMR kinetic study and DFT calculations provided insights into the reaction mechanism and reasons governing stereoinduction.     

Electrochemical Direct C−H Halogenation of N-Heteroarenes and Naphthols

In this study, we present a straightforward and environmentally friendly electrochemical approach for achieving selective halogenation of N-heteroarenes, including indoles, diazoles, pyrroles, quinolinone, and naphthols. Our method utilizes commercially available and affordable ammonium halides as halogen source. A library of valuable halogenated N-heteroarenes can be synthesized in moderate to excellent yields under mild conditions (transition-metal-free, oxidant-free, ethanol as solvent, atmospheric environment). The approach demonstrates a broad substrate scope, excellent tolerance towards various functional groups, and scalability.     

Ligand-Promoted RhI-Catalyzed C2-Selective C−H Alkenylation and Polyenylation of Imidazoles with Alkenyl Carboxylic Acids

The first Rh^I-catalyzed, directed decarbonylative C2−H alkenylation of imidazoles with readily available alkenyl carboxylic acids is reported. The reaction proceeds in a highly regio- and stereoselective manner, providing efficient access to C2-alkenylated imidazoles that are generally inaccessible by known C−H alkenylation methods. This transformation accommodates a wide range of alkenyl carboxylic acids, including challenging conjugated polyene carboxylic acids, and diversely decorated imidazoles with high functional group compatibility. The presence of a removable pyrimidine directing group and the use of a bidentate phosphine ligand are pivotal to the success of the catalytic reaction. This process is also suitable for benzimidazoles. Importantly, the scalability and diversification of the products highlight the potential of this protocol in practical applications. Detailed experimental and computational studies provide important insights into the underlying reaction mechanism.     

KI catalyzed azidoselenenylation of alkenes with sodium azide and diselenides via an oxidative cleavage of Se–Se bond

Using potassium iodide as a catalyst and m-chloroperbenzoic acid as an oxidant, an efficient catalytic procedure has been developed for the azidoselenenylation of alkenes with sodium azide and diselenides, and a series of corresponding β-azidoselenides, most of which are new compounds, have been prepared in moderate to good yields under mild reaction conditions. This in situ generation of the electrophilic selenenylating reagents with addition to alkenes is a stereospecific anti addition, which occurs with a Markovnikov orientation.