Transition metal-free approach for late-stage benzylic C(sp3)-H etherifications and esterifications

We report a transition metal-free approach for the regioselective functionalization of benzylic C(sp(3))-H bonds using alcohols and carboxylic acids as the nucleophiles. This straightforward and general route has provided various benzylic ethers and esters, including twelve pharmaceutically relevant compounds.

Automated summary

A transition metal-free method has been reported for the selective functionalization of benzylic C(sp(3))-H bonds using alcohols and carboxylic acids as nucleophiles. This straightforward and general approach has provided various benzylic ethers and esters, including twelve pharmaceutically relevant compounds.