N‑Pyridylimidates as Traceless Acyl Equivalents for Directed C–O Bond Functionalization

Directing groups are a common strategy to target traditionally inert bonds, with an easily removable directing group being ideal. Herein we disclose our method for rhodium-catalyzed C–O bond functionalization of N-pyridylimidates using a recyclable and traceless amine directing group. In addition to the substrate scope, we discuss the behavior of this class of compounds and how that behavior affects their reactivity.