RhII-Catalyzed Intermolecular C-H Arylation of Aromatics with Diazo Quinones

We developed an efficient synthesis of biaryls by a dirhodium(II)-catalyzed aromatic C-H arylation with diazo quinones. The new biaryl synthesis can be performed under mild and neutral conditions and without directing group chelation assistance. The reaction tolerates various functionalities and is applicable to a broad range of aromatics. The regioselectivity of the C-H arylation was often high and predictable. The synthetic utility of the method was demonstrated by the late-stage modifications of a series of pharmaceuticals and functional materials as well as a short synthesis of a transthyretin amyloid inhibitor.