10.1021/acs.orglett.0c02635
The study presents the development of a catalytic system for the C-alkylation of N-heterocyclic compounds, such as pyridine, pyrimidine, pyrazine, quinoline, quinoxaline, and isoquinoline, using alcohols. The process is based on a hydrogen-borrowing approach and utilizes [Cp*IrCl2]2 as the catalyst precursor, combined with potassium t-butoxide and 18-crown-6-ether. This method is environmentally friendly as it only produces water as a byproduct. The researchers optimized the reaction conditions and demonstrated the system's versatility by applying it to various substrates, achieving good to excellent yields. The study also proposed a possible reaction mechanism involving three steps: hydrogen transfer from alcohol to iridium catalyst, cross-aldol-type condensation, and transfer hydrogenation. The developed catalytic system is expected to contribute to the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and functional materials.