Copper-catalyzed intramolecular C(sp³)-H and C(sp²)-H amidation by oxidative cyclization.

The first copper-catalyzed intramolecular C(sp(3))-H and C(sp(2))-H oxidative amidation has been developed. Using a Cu(OAc)2 catalyst and an Ag2CO3 oxidant in dichloroethane solvent, C(sp(3))-H amidation proceeded at a terminal methyl group, as well as at the internal benzylic position of an alkyl chain. This reaction has a broad substrate scope, and various β-lactams were obtained in excellent yield, even on gram scale. Use of CuCl2 and Ag2CO3 under an O2 atmosphere in dimethyl sulfoxide, however, leads to 2-indolinone selectively by C(sp(2))-H amidation. Kinetic isotope effect (KIE) studies indicated that C-H bond activation is the rate-determining step. The 5-methoxyquinolyl directing group could be removed by oxidation.