Exploiting the Reactivity of Isocyanide: Coupling Reaction between Isocyanide and Toluene Derivatives Using the Isocyano Group as an N1 Synthon

An unusual oxidative coupling reaction of isocyanide and toluene derivatives using tetrabutylammonium iodide (TBAI) as a catalyst is disclosed. The experimental results and mechanistic study show that the isocyano group acts formally as an N1 synthon during the transformation, thus expanding the reactivity profile of isocyanide.