Clean and economic synthesis of N-sulfonyl isothioureas from isocyanides, sulfonamides and disulfides

Abstract

An electrochemical three-component reaction involving isocyanides, sulfonamides and disulfides was developed, using ⁿBu₄NI as a redox catalyst and electrolyte. A rare N-to-N [1,3]-H shift was observed in this transformation. This method represents a highly efficient and cost-effective approach for the synthesis of N-sulfonyl isothioureas.