Meta-Selective C-H Functionalization Using a Nitrile-Based Directing Group and Cleavable Si-Tether

A nitrile-based template that enables metaselective C-H bond functionalization was developed. The template is applicable to a range of substituted arenes and tolerates a variety of functional groups. The directing group uses a silicon atom for attachment, allowing for a facile introduction/deprotection strategy increasing the synthetic practicality of this template.