Utilization of sulfur function in directed catalytic C-H transformation: site-selective substitution on indole and naphthalene skeletons

Abstract

Sulfur-containing functional groups, among various coordinating functions, have recently attracted attention as useful directing groups for the direct catalytic C-H transformation of aromatic and heteroaromatic compounds. Herein we briefly summarize our recent work on the site-selective substitution on indole and naphthalene skeletons using thioether directing groups under either Cp*Rh(III) or Cp*Ir(III) catalysis. The thioether groups can readily be removed and transformed to other functional groups. The reactions developed appear to be of importance in pharmaceutical and materials chemistry.