Rhodium-Catalyzed Direct and Selective ortho C-H Chalcogenation of N-(Hetero)aryl-7-azaindoles

Rhodium catalyzed synthesis of chalcogenated N-aryl-7-azaindoles/azaindolines has been developed through N-directed ortho Csp(2)-H activation in presence of silver triflate and silver carbonate in 1,4-dioxane using dichalcogenides. We have established this methodology as being efficient, highly regioselective and scalable, having a broad substrates scope. Through this route, a range of substrates have furnished thiolation and selenylation of azaindoles and azaindolines in good to excellent yields. These molecules could have potential application in biological and/or material science.