Nickel-Catalyzed Reversible Functional Group Metathesis between Aryl Nitriles and Aryl Thioethers

We describe a new functional group metathesis between aryl nitrites and aryl thioethers. The catalytic system nickel/ dcype is essential to achieve this fully reversible transformation in good to excellent yields. Furthermore, the cyanide- and thiol-free reaction shows high functional group tolerance and great efficiency for the late-stage derivatization of commercial molecules. Finally, synthetic applications demonstrate its versatility and utility in multistep synthesis.

Automated summary

A new functional group metathesis reaction between aryl nitrites and aryl thioethers has been described, utilizing a catalytic system of nickel/dcype to achieve fully reversible transformation in good to excellent yields. This cyanide- and thiol-free reaction demonstrates high functional group tolerance and efficiency for late-stage derivatization of commercial molecules, with synthetic applications showcasing its versatility and utility in multistep synthesis.