TfOH-Catalyzed Regioselective S-H Insertion of Cyclic Thioamide Derivatives with Diazo Compounds at Room Temperature.

We have developed a method for highly regioselective S-H bond insertion reactions of various diazo compounds and cyclic thioamide derivatives at room temperature. These reactions provide straightforward access to alkylated benzimidazoles, benzothiazoles, and benzoxazoles. This mild method uses readily available TfOH as a catalyst and features a broad substrate scope, good functional group tolerance, good to excellent yields, and high regioselectivities.