Iron-Catalysed Alkylation of 2-Methyl and 4-Methylazaarenes with Alcohols via C-H Bond Activation

The first Fe-catalysed alkylation of 2-methyl and 4-methylazaarenes with a series of alkyl and hetero-aryl alcohols is reported (>39 examples and up to 95% yield). Multi-functionalisation of pyrazines and synthesis of anti-malarial drug (±) Angustureine significantly broadens the scope of this methodology. Preliminary mechanistic investigation, deuterium labeling and kinetic experiments including trapping of the enamine intermediate 1a’ are of special highlights.