Palladium-Catalyzed Oxidative Arylalkylation of Unactivated Alkenes: Dual C-H Bond Cleavage of Anilines and Acetonitrile

A palladium-catalyzed oxidative arylalkylation of unactivated alkenes involving dual C-H bond cleavage of arene and acetonitrile was developed. This reaction was promoted by pyridine as a ligand, and the ratio of palladium to pyridine is vital for this transformation. A series of nitrile-containing indolines were efficiently provided in moderate to good yields.