Palladium-catalyzed oxidative cross-coupling for the synthesis of α-amino ketones.

A novel oxidative cross-coupling reaction for the synthesis of α-aryl α-amino ketones in the presence of palladium catalysts using T + BF 4 - as an oxidant has been developed. This transformation was achieved by direct C-H oxidation of α-aminocarbonyl compounds and arylation. The mild reaction has a broad reaction scope and gives desired α-aryl α-amino ketones in moderate to excellent yields.