Published as part of the Cluster Modern Heterocycle Synthesis and Functionalization
Abstract
Minisci-type reactions comprise an important class of reactions for the direct functionalization
of basic heterocyclic compounds. On certain heterocycles, such as quinolines, Minisci-type
reactions face a regioselectivity choice which often results in mixtures of regioisomers
at the C2 and C4 positions, limiting utility. We present a study of the effect of
solvent and Brønsted acid catalyst on regioselectivity in the addition of N-acetyl-substituted, α-amino alkyl radicals to quinolines. By tuning the solvent and
acid combination we identify conditions that strongly favour C2 and strongly favour
C4 and present a small scope of compatible substrates.
Key words
Minisci reaction - regioselectivity - Brønsted acid - heterocycles - radicals