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.