Exploiting the Reactivity of Isocyanide: Coupling Reaction between Isocyanide and Toluene Derivatives Using the Isocyano Group as an N1 Synthon

Abstract

An unusual oxidative coupling reaction of isocyanide and toluene derivatives using tetrabutylammonium iodide (TBAI) as a catalyst is disclosed. The experimental results and mechanistic study show that the isocyano group acts formally as an N1 synthon during the transformation, thus expanding the reactivity profile of isocyanide.