Intermolecular alkene arylcyanation using BnSCN as a cyanide source via a reductive strategy: access to 3,3-disubstituted oxindoles

Abstract

Herein, a nickel-catalyzed two-component reductive arylcyanation of aryl (pseudo)halide tethered alkenes using benzyl thiocyanate as the cyanide source via C–S bond activation is developed. Using this protocol, a wide scope of 3,3-disubstituted oxindoles bearing all-carbon quaternary stereocenters are accessible in moderate to excellent yields. The preliminary mechanistic investigations reveal that a Ni(I)/Ni(III) process might be involved in the mechanism.