Selective Synthesis of Aminoisoquinolines via Rh(III)-Catalyzed C–H/N–H Bond Functionalization of N‑Aryl Amidines with Cyclic 2‑Diazo-1,3-diketones

A simple C–H/N–H bond functionalization of N-aryl amidines with cyclic 2-diazo-1,3-diketones for the synthesis of 1-aminoisoquinolines has been accomplished by employing [Cp*RhCl2]2/CsOPiv as the catalyst system. This methodology proceeds by a cascade C–H activation/intramolecular cyclization under mild reaction conditions, features a broad substrate scope, and involves the formation of two new σ bonds (C–C and C–N) in a single operation for the construction of novel 1-aminoisoquinoline skeletons in good to excellent yields.