Ran Jiang

Practical multi-component synthesis of di- or tri-aryl (Heteraryl) substituted 2-(pyridin-2-yl)imidazoles from simple building blocks.

A convenient and highly efficient multicomponent protocol has been developed for the synthesis of various poly-substituted 2-(pyridin-2-yl)imidazoles from 2-cyanopyridine, corresponding aromatic aldehydes, and NH(4)OAc/primary amine. Notably, tri-substituted 2-(pyridin-2-yl)imidazoles were highly yielded when aromatic primary amines were used as substrates, but both di- and tri-substituted 2-(pyridin-2-yl)imidazoles were obtained in one pot when some aliphatic primary amines were used as substrates.

Direct C–O Bond Activation Mediated by AcOH: A New Metal-Free Way for α-Functionalization of Ferrocene Alcohols

α-functionalization of ferrocenyl alcohols by direct C–O bond activation by indoles, active methylene compounds, electron-rich arenes, anilines, alcohols, and thiols in acetic acid is described. This protocol provides a relatively green and efficient combinatorial access to ferrocene derivatives in a metal-free manner.

In(OTf)3 catalyzed C3-benzylation of indoles with benzyl alcohols in water

A novel C3-benzylation of indoles through C–O bond activation of benzyl alcohols catalyzed by In(OTf)3 in water has been developed. The reactions proceed smoothly in presence of In(OTf)3 as the catalyst without the use of any bases, ligands or other additives to perform the desired product in moderate to excellent yields.