Modular synthesis of sulfilimines via NFSI-mediated S-arylation of sulfenamides with naphthols, phenols and indoles

Abstract

Sulfilimines were exploited as valuable moieties in organic synthesis and medicinal chemistry; however, efficient methods for constructing such scaffolds remain limited. Herein, we disclosed a convenient method for modular synthesis of structurally diverse sulfilimines through NFSI-mediated oxidative S-arylation of sulfenamides with naphthols, phenols and indoles at room temperature. This straightforward process proceeded smoothly under mild conditions, with a broad substrate scope and high overall efficiency. The potential synthetic merit of this protocol was further demonstrated through gram-scale reactions, product derivatization and late-stage modification of natural products and drugs.