Cobalt-Catalyzed 2-(1-Methylhydrazinyl)pyridine-Assisted Direct C−H/N−H Functionalization of Benzoyl Hydrazide with Isocyanide: Efficient Synthesis of Iminoisoindolinone Derivatives

Abstract

A cobalt-catalyzed direct C−H/N−H functionalization of benzoyl hydrazide with isocyanide by utilizing 2-(1-methylhydrazinyl)pyridine (MHP) as a bidentate directing group has been developed. This formal [4+1] cycloaddition protocol showed high efficiency and remarkable functional group tolerance, and the ubiquitous 3-iminoisoindolinones were obtained in good to excellent yields in the presence of the earth-abundant cobalt catalyst. Moreover, this transformation was accomplished by employing environmentally friendly oxygen as the sole oxidant in the absence of any other additives. (Figure presented.).