Au-Catalyzed Cross-Coupling of Arenes via Double C–H Activation

The
first methodology for Au­(I/III)-catalyzed oxidative cross-coupling
of arenes via double C–H activation has been developed. The
reaction is fully selective for the cross-coupling between electron-rich
hetero‑/​carbocyclic arenes and electron-poor arenes
bearing relatively acidic C–H bonds. The inherently high cross-selectivity
of the system obviates the need for directing groups or a large excess
of one of the coupling partners.