Reaction development on π- and σ-conjugated bonds and creation of innovative functions

Abstract

Monocarba-closo-dodecaborate (1; [closo-CB 11 H 12 ] - , or C1-carborane anion) is a symmetrical, stable anionic cluster, which possesses low nucleophilicity/basicity and exhibits three-dimensional aromaticity. In contrast to the rich applications of C2-carborane molecules (C 2 B 10 H 12 ), the chemistry of the C1-carborane anion as a platform for functional molecules has not been thoroughly studied thus far due to the lack of its efficient functionalization. In particular, no efficient general methods are available for the introduction of aryl and sp 2 /sp-carbon groups at the carbon vertex of the C1-carborane anion. The unique electronic structure and potential applications of the C1-carborane anion prompted us to investigate methods to functionalize it. We developed a general, effcient C-C cross-coupling reaction of 1 under palladium catalysis which yields a variety of 1-C-functionalized C1-carborane derivatives. The use of copper(I) or lithium species as a transmetalating partner facilitated the cross-coupling process of the sterically hindered C1-carborane anion. The potential application of 1-C-arylated C1-carborane anion derivatives thus obtained were explored, some of which showed potential as pharmacophores and ionic liquid crystal behavior. Furthermore, conjugation between σ- and π-aromatic moieties in 1-C-arylated monocarba-closo-dodecaborate anion derivatives was identified by means of kinetic experimental studies combined with theoretical calculations.