An efficient synthesis of iminoisoindolione derivatives by cobalt-catalyzed oxidative isocyanide insertion

A Cobalt-catalyzed oxidative isocyanide insertion of aminoquinoline benzamides has been developed. The reaction proceeded smoothly by using Ag2CO3 as the oxidant in PhCI at 120 degrees C and delivered products in moderate to excellent yields with excellent functional group tolerance. The transformation is supposed to undergo the ortho C-H activation and isocyanide insertion of C-Co species toward the benzamides. Attractive features of this system include the use of low cost cobalt catalyst, the easy-handling operation, and readily available substrates. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.