The C–H arylation of indoles holds the promise to shorten synthetic routes in the
production of pharmaceuticals. However, late-stage C–H activation reactions often
rely on the presence of protecting groups or stoichiometric metal additives. The regiospecific
C–H arylation of a highly functionalized azepino[5,3,4-cd]indole scaffold lacking directing groups via Pd(II) and Cu(II) co-catalysis is reported.
The direct C–H coupling was demonstrated in the convergent synthesis of rucaparib,
an FDA approved anticancer drug.
Key words
C–H activation - indole - arylation - homogeneous catalysis - palladium - copper -
organic synthesis - pharmaceuticals
