Copper-Catalyzed Cyanoalkylation of Amines via C–C Bond Cleavage: An Approach for C(sp³)–N Bond Formations

Abstract

The efficient copper-catalyzed cyanoalkylation of amines via C–C bond cleavage has been demonstrated. Distinctive features of this procedure involves mild conditions, broad range of nitrogen nucleophiles, high selectivity, and good functional group tolerance, thus providing a useful approach for the C(sp3)–N bond formations. Most importantly, this protocol is applicable to the late-stage functionalization of natural products, amino acid esters, and drugs. Mechanistic studies suggest that a radical intermediate was involved in this transformation.