Cobalt Catalyzed Functionalization of Unactivated Alkenes: Regioselective Reductive C-C Bond Forming Reactions

The cobalt catalyzed hydroaldoximation and hydrocyanooximation of unactivated alkenes is reported. Secondary and tertiary aldoximes and oximonitriles are synthesized with excellent regioselectivity under mild conditions, and conversion of the products to valuable intermediates is documented. The reactions expand the arsenal of reductive carbon-carbon bond forming reactions as well as regioselective functionalizations of unactivated double bonds.