Palladium-catalyzed one-pot diarylamine formation from nitroarenes and cyclohexanones

Org Lett. 2012 Apr 6;14(7):1692-5. doi: 10.1021/ol3002442. Epub 2012 Mar 12.

Abstract

The first palladium-catalyzed diarylamine formation from nitroarenes and cyclohexanone derivatives using borrowed hydrogen is described. Various diarylamines were selectively obtained in good to excellent yields. The reaction tolerated a wide range of functionalities. The nitro reduction, cyclohexanone dehydrogenation, and imine formation and reduction were realized in a cascade without an external reducing reagent and oxidant.