Iodine-mediated decarboxylative coupling to synthesize β-sulfonyl-ene-amines/2,3-diarythio-pyrroles from α-amino acids and sodium sulfinates

Abstract

A novel process has been developed for the selective synthesis of β-sulfonyl-enamines and 2,3-diarylthiopyrroles. This process utilizes the decarboxylative coupling and β-C(sp³)–H functionalization of α-amino acids. In this reaction, iodine functions dually as a tandem catalyst to initiate the decarboxylation of α-amino acids and as an oxidant to facilitate the formation of organic sulfides. This innovative approach not only simplifies the synthesis but also enhances the yield and selectivity of the desired products.