C2-Selective C–H Methylation of Heterocyclic <i>N</i>-Oxides with Sulfonium Ylides

Abstract

A redox-neutral C2-selective methylation of heterocyclic N-oxides with sulfonium ylides is described herein. This report presents unprecedented findings for the utility of sulfonium ylides as the methylation source of N-heterocycles beyond the Corey–Chaykovsky reaction. Intriguingly, pyrrolidine plays a significant role in minimizing the reductive C2-methylation process. This method is characterized by its mild conditions, simplicity, and excellent site selectivity. The applicability of the developed protocol is showcased by the late-stage methylation and sequential transformations of complex drug molecules.