Copper-promoted direct sulfenylation of C1-H bonds in 4-aryl pyrrolo[1,2- a ]quinoxalines.

Methods for direct functionalization of C(sp 2 )-H bonds in pyrrolo[1,2- a ]quinoxalines have witnessed emerging development over the last decade. Herein we report a new tactic to afford a selective sulfenylation of 4-aryl pyrrolo[1,2- a ]quinoxalines with diaryl disulfides. The reactions proceeded in the presence of a copper catalyst and potassium iodide promoter. Functionalities including nitro, ester, amide, methylthio, and halogen groups were all tolerated. Our method offers a convenient route to obtain highly substituted pyrrolo[1,2- a ]quinoxalines-based thioethers in moderate to good yields.