Aromatic C-H Addition to Ketones: The Effect of Directing Groups

The first example of the transition-metal-catalyzed direct intermolecular C-H bond addition to ketones was achieved by using a rhodium catalyst. A significant influence of the directing group on the reactivity was observed, and sterically more hindered directing groups could promote the reaction. In addition, intermolecular hydrogen bonding played a role in stabilizing the product. The substrate scope for the quinoline derivatives was very good.