Directed nickel-catalyzed negishi cross coupling of alkyl aziridines

J Am Chem Soc. 2013 Sep 11;135(36):13605-9. doi: 10.1021/ja4076716. Epub 2013 Aug 30.

Abstract

Herein we report a nickel-catalyzed C-C bond-forming reaction between simple alkyl aziridines and organozinc reagents. This method represents the first catalytic cross-coupling reaction employing a nonallylic and nonbenzylic Csp(3)-N bond as an electrophile. Key to its success is the use of a new N-protecting group (cinsyl or Cn) bearing an electron-deficient olefin that directs oxidative addition and facilitates reductive elimination. Studies pertinent to elucidation of the mechanism of cross coupling are also presented.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aziridines / chemical synthesis*
  • Aziridines / chemistry
  • Catalysis
  • Molecular Structure
  • Nickel / chemistry*

Substances

  • Aziridines
  • Nickel