Aerobic Ru-catalyzed direct C2-olefination of N-heteroarenes with alkenes directed by a removable N-dimethylcarbamoyl group

A highly efficient and selective Ru-catalyzed direct C2-olefination of indoles, pyrroles, and carbazoles assisted by a removable N-dimethylcarbamoyl group has been developed by using O-2 as the terminal oxidant. Both electron-deficient and unactivated alkenes are applicable to the protocol.