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.     

Efficient Synthesis of Spirooxindole Pyrrolones by a Rhodium(III)‐Catalyzed C−H Activation/Carbene Insertion/Lossen Rearrangement Sequence

A rhodium(III)‐catalyzed domino annulation of simple olefins with diazo oxindoles to give spirooxindole pyrrolone products is described. This reaction can be formally viewed as the result of an anomalous tandem C?H activation, carbene insertion, Lossen rearrangement, and a nucleophilic addition process. The potential utility of this reaction was further demonstrated by the late‐stage diversification of drug molecules.     

Iridium(I)‐Catalyzed Intramolecular Hydrocarbonation of Alkenes: Efficient Access to Cyclic Systems Bearing Quaternary Stereocenters

A catalytic, versatile and atom‐economical C−H functionalization process that provides a wide variety of cyclic systems featuring methyl‐substituted quaternary stereocenters is described. The method relies on the use of a cationic Ir^I–bisphosphine catalyst, which promotes a carboxamide‐assisted activation of an olefinic C(sp²)−H bond followed by exo‐cyclization to a tethered 1,1‐disubstituted alkene. The extension of the method to aromatic and heteroaromatic C−H bonds, as well as developments on an enantioselective variant, are also described.     

Palladium‐Catalyzed Spirocyclization through C−H Activation and Regioselective Alkyne Insertion

A Pd‐catalyzed spirocyclization involving a sequential carbopalladation, intramolecular C−H activation, and a highly regioselective alkyne insertion to afford spirooxindoles and spirodihydrobenzofurans has been achieved. The spirocyclic products were generated in good to excellent yields with complete regiocontrol in a readily scalable procedure.     

Copper‐Mediated Late‐Stage Functionalization of Heterocycle‐Containing Molecules

One long‐standing issue in directed C−H functionalization is that either nitrogen or sulfur atoms present in heterocyclic substrates may bind preferentially to a transition‐metal catalyst rather than to the desired directing group. This competitive binding has largely hindered the application of C−H functionalization in late‐stage heterocycle drug discovery. Reported here is the use of an oxazoline‐based directing group capable of overriding the poisoning effect of a wide range of heterocycle substrates. The potential use of this directing group in pharmaceutical drug discovery is illustrated by diversification of Telmisartan (an antagonist for the angiotensin II receptor) through copper‐mediated C−H amination, hydroxylation, thiolation, arylation, and trifluoromethylation.