Pd-Catalyzed α-Selective C-H Functionalization of Olefins: En Route to 4-Imino-β-Lactams.

Pd-catalyzed α-olefinic C-H activation of simple α,β-unsaturated olefins has been developed. 4-imino-β-lactam derivatives were readily synthesized via activation of α-olefinic C-H bonds with excellent cis stereoselectivity. A wide range of heterocycles at the β-position are compatible with this reaction. The product of 4-imino-β-lactam derivatives can be readily converted to 2-aminoquinoline which exists extensively in pharmaceutical drugs and natural products.