Cobalt-catalyzed C(sp2)–H bond imination of phenylalanine derivatives

Abstract

Herein we report the cobalt-catalyzed, picolinamide-directed C–H bond imination protocol of phenylalanine derivatives using isocyanides and a Co(dpm)₂ catalyst. A wide range of functional groups were tolerated under the reaction conditions, yielding imines in high yields. The obtained imine products can easily be transformed to 1-aminoisoquinoline derivatives under reductive conditions, providing an attractive alternative to already existing methodologies. The control experiments indicated that C–H activation might occur via an electrophilic pathway.