Work

A General Strategy for C(sp 3 )─H Bond Etherification via Quinoline Derivative‐Mediated Electrolysis

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Electrooxidative coupling of C(sp 3 )─H bonds with nucleophiles offers an attractive method for constructing C─C and C─X bonds without sacrificial oxidants. However, the direct electrochemical approach requires the nucleophilic reagent to have a higher potential than the C(sp 3 )─H coupling partners, which restricts the substrate scope. In this study, a quinoline derivative is introduced as an electrochemical mediator, enabling efficient C─H bond etherification with reduced reliance on the electronic properties of substrates. The catalytic system demonstrates broad substrate compatibility, extending to C(sp 3 )─H coupling partners featuring a diverse range of C─H bonds, including tertiary benzylic C─H bonds and unactivated C(sp 3 )─H bonds. Mechanistic investigations confirm the role of the electrocatalyst in the hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) process. This method provides a versatile and efficient strategy for the late‐stage functionalization of bioactive molecules.

Source: Advanced Science

DOI: 10.1002/advs.202416803

Authors: Yousen Xu, Hao Wu, ChenXi Zhu, Minjun Tu, Lei Zhang

Institution: University of Chinese Academy of Sciences

Language: English

Topic: Catalytic C–H Functionalization Methods

Subfield: Organic Chemistry

Field: Chemistry

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $6,730

Funders: National Natural Science Foundation of China, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences