Synthesis of Multisubstituted Benzimidazolones via Copper-Catalyzed Oxidative Tandem C–H Aminations and Alkyl Deconstructive Carbofunctionalization

Abstract

Summary: Benzimidazolone constitutes the core structure of numerous pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, inhibitors, pigments, herbicides, and fine chemicals. Amination of hydrocarbons is an attractive tool for the creation of nitrogen-containing products. However, the multiple steps, harsh conditions, and low atom efficiencies often present in these reactions remain challenging. We present a multicomponent synthesis of functional benzimidazolones from arylamines, dialkylamines, and alcohols, acting via the sequence of copper-catalyzed oxidative tandem C–H aminations and alkyl deconstructive carbofunctionalization. The catalytic transformation forms multiple bonds in one single operation, uses readily available feedstocks and a naturally abundant Cu/O2 catalyst system, has broad substrate scope, avoids pre-installation of aminating agents and directing groups, and provides high chemo- and regioselectivity, resulting in direct functionalization of inert C–H and C–C bonds via single-electron oxidation-induced activation mode. This platform can be expected to provide structurally diverse products with interesting biological, chemical, and physical properties. : Chemistry; Catalysis; Organic Chemistry Subject Areas: Chemistry, Catalysis, Organic Chemistry