A practical access to fluoroalkylthio(seleno)-functionalized bicyclo[1.1.1]pentanes

Rational design of new bioisosteres through introduction of high-value functional groups to bicyclo[1.1.1]pentane (BCP) is of particular use for drug discovery. Disclosed herein is the first access to valuable fluoroalkylthio(seleno)-functionalized BCPs. A range of SCF3, SCF2H, SCFH2, SeCF3, SeC4F9, and SeC8F17 groups are readily incorporated to BCPs under mild conditions. Concomitant installation of a sulfone provides a platform for incorporation of the BCP motif to bioactive molecules. This practical protocol features novel BCP scaffolds, broad substrate scope, excellent atom-economy, simple operation, and gram-scale preparation.