Rh(II)-catalyzed intramolecular C-H insertion of diazo substrates in water: Scope and limitations

Preferential Rh(II) carbenoid intramolecular C-H versus O-H insertion derived from R-diazo-acetamides can be achieved in water by using an appropriate combination of the catalyst and amide groups, which creates a larger hydrophobic environment around the reactive carbenoid center.