Regioselective Intermolecular Allylic C-H Amination of Disubstituted Olefins via Rhodium/π-Allyl Intermediates

A method for catalytic intermolecular allylic C-H amination of trans-disubstituted olefins is reported. The reaction is efficient for a range of common nitrogen nucleo-philes bearing one electron-withdrawing group, and proceeds under mild reaction conditions. Good levels of regioselectivity are observed for a wide range of electronically diverse trans-beta-alkyl styrene substrates.