Copper-catalyzed amination of an α-C(sp)-H bond in inactivated ethers to synthesize α-aminonitriles.

A copper-catalyzed functionalization of inert cyclic ethers was developed to provide α-aminonitriles via a cascade oxidation/amination/ring-opening/cyanation reaction. A series of highly versatile α-aminonitriles were obtained from primary or secondary anilines, and heterocyclic and aliphatic amines with high yields. This process features excellent functional group tolerance, a broad substrate scope, and high activity under ambient conditions.