Nickel-Catalyzed C(sp3)–H Functionalization of Benzyl Nitriles: Direct Michael Addition to Terminal Vinyl Ketones

An efficient nickel(0)-catalyzed addition of benzyl nitriles to terminal vinyl ketones via C(sp3)-H functionalization has been developed. The reaction provides a novel and efficient protocol for the synthesis of α-functionalized benzyl nitriles with a wide range of structural diversity under mild reaction conditions while obviating the use of a strong base. The work might be potentially useful toward the development of an enantioselective variant using chiral nitrogen ligands.