Chemo-and Stereoselective Rh(III)-Catalyzed Coupling of Indoles with CF3 -Imidoyl Sulfoxonium Ylides via Thioamide-directed C-H Activation

Abstract

A thioamide-directed, Rh(III)-catalyzed divergent coupling of indoles with CF3-imidoyl sulfoxonium ylides is developed. The chemoselectivity of this transformation is critically modulated by additives, solvents, and temperature, enabling the switchable synthesis of three distinct products via either thioamide transformation, migration, or retention. This strategy proceeds with excellent chemo-and stereoselectivity (predominantly Z-selectivity) and demonstrates broad functional group tolerance. Notably, several of the synthesized compounds exhibit promising antiproliferative activity, highlighting their potential as anticancer agents.