A robust synthesis of phenanthridines has been described via Pd(II)-catalyzed domino C(sp2)–H activation/N-arylation using oxime esters with aryl acyl peroxides in a highly regioselective manner. This protocol is compatible with acetophenone as well as benzophenone-derived oxime esters and allows modular construction of functionalized phenanthridines with wide tolerance of electronic functionality
A sequential oxidative radical alkoxycarbonylation and aromatization of 2-isocyanobiphenyl with carbazates was developed to furnish phenanthridine-6-carboxylates. Various functional groups such as methoxy, chloro, fluoro, trifluoromethoxy, and trifluoromethyl groups were tolerated well under the reaction conditions. The sequential radical addition-cyclization strategy represents a practical route to access phenanthridine-6-carboxylates.