Asymmetric synthesis of dibenzo[ b , d ]azepines by Cu-catalyzed reductive or borylative cyclization

A copper-catalyzed asymmetric intramolecular reductive cyclization for the synthesis of dibenzo[b,d]azepines is described. Use of 2'-vinyl-biaryl-2-imines as substrates and in situ formed [CuI/(Ph-BPE)] as the catalyst enables the synthesis of 7-membered bridged biarylamines containing both central and axial stereogenic elements in high yields (up to 99%) and with excellent diastereo- and enantioselectivities (>20:1 dr, up to 99% ee). Moreover, the same catalyst was found to facilitate a related borylative cyclization to afford versatile boronic ester derivatives. Both reactions proceed under mild conditions (rt) and are applicable to a variety of substituted aromatic and heterocyclic derivatives.