Copper-catalyzed amination of C(sp3)−H bonds: from anilides to indolines

Copper-catalyzed oxidative intramolecular cyclization of o-alkylated anilines via cleavage of C(sp3)−H and N−H bonds for the production of indolines is described. This approach provides a straightforward strategy for the synthesis of nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compounds through the functionalization of unactivated C(sp3)−H bonds with high site-selectivity. The present catalytic system shows high preference for functionalization of unactivated C(sp3)−H bonds over C(sp2)−H bonds leading to C−N bond formation.