Invited
Selective functionalization of C—H bonds to C—C and C—N bonds by iron catalysis

Iron catalyzed oxidative coupling reactions have become powerful synthetic methods for preparing complex molecular architectures in a single step. Such transformations are mediated by redox catalysts that promote the transfer of two electrons and two protons from strong C—H bonds to an oxidant while forging a new C—X bond (X = C, N or O). Recent synthetic advancements together with an improved mechanistic understanding have led our group to the development of efficient and highly selective catalytic systems for the oxidative cross-coupling between phenols or anilines and various nucleophilic coupling partners.