Cu(OTf)2-Mediated Ionizing Cross-Coupling of N(sp) and N(sp2) with Arylboronic Acids

Metal-catalyzed C–N cross-coupling generally forms C–N bonds by reductive elimination from metal complexes bearing covalent C- and N-ligands. We have identified a Cu-mediated C–N cross-coupling that uses a dative N-ligand in the bond forming event, which, in contrast to conventional methods, generates reactive cationic products. Mechanistic studies suggest the process operates via transmetalation of an aryl organoboron to a Cu(II) complex bearing neutral N-ligands, such as nitriles or N-heterocycles. Subsequent generation of a putative Cu(III) complex enables the oxidative C–N coupling to take place, delivering nitrilium intermediates and pyridinium products. The reaction is general for a range of N(sp) and N(sp2) precursors and can be applied to drug synthesis and late-stage N-arylation, and the limitations in the methodology are mechanistically evidenced.