TBHP Promotes Cross-Dehydrogenative Coupling of SF4 Alkynes with Tetrahydroisoquinolines under Copper Catalysis

We present a viable approach for the cross-dehydrogenative coupling of Het-SF4-alkynes with tetrahydroisoquinolines under oxidative conditions, using TBHP and copper catalysts. These newly developed conditions boast enhanced yields and a more extensive range of substrates, demonstrating tolerance to various functional groups and addressing the limitations of earlier reports. Consequently, this method should increase opportunities for the exploration of SF4-containing compounds and their potential applications in drug discovery, materials science, and as alternatives to PFAS.

Overcoming a Radical Polarity Mismatch in Strain-Release Pentafluorosulfanylation of [1.1.0]Bicyclobutanes: An Entryway to Sulfone- and Carbonyl-Containing SF5-Cyclobutanes

The first assortment of achiral pentafluorosulfanylated cyclobutanes (SF5-CBs) are now synthetically accessible through strain-release functionalization of [1.1.0]bicyclobutanes (BCBs) using SF5Cl. Methods for both chloropentafluorosulfanylation and hydropentafluorosulfanylation of sulfone-based BCBs are detailed herein, as well as proof-of-concept that the logic extends to tetrafluoro(aryl)sulfanylation, tetrafluoro(trifluoromethyl)sulfanylation, and three-component pentafluorosulfanylation reactions. The methods presented enable isolation of both syn and anti isomers of SF5-CBs, but we also demonstrate that this innate selectivity can be overridden in chloropentafluorosulfanylation; that is, an anti-stereoselective variant of SF5Cl addition across sulfone-based BCBs can be achieved by using inexpensive copper salt additives. Considering the SF5 group and CBs have been employed individually as nonclassical bioisosteres, structural aspects of these unique SF5-CB "hybrid isosteres" were then contextualized using SC-XRD. From a mechanistic standpoint, chloropentafluorosulfanylation ostensibly proceeds through a curious polarity mismatch addition of electrophilic SF5 radicals to the electrophilic sites of the BCBs. Upon examining carbonyl-containing BCBs, we also observed rare instances whereby radical addition to the 1-position of a BCB occurs. The nature of the key C(sp3)-SF5 bond formation step - among other mechanistic features of the methods we disclose - was investigated experimentally and with DFT calculations. Lastly, we demonstrate compatibility of SF5-CBs with various downstream functionalizations.

Transition-Metal-Free Approach for Z-Vinyl Fluorides by Hydrofluorination of Alkynes bearing SF4 and SF5 Groups

The synthesis of vinyl fluorides plays a crucial role in various scientific disciplines, including pharmaceutical and materials sciences. Herein, we present a direct and stereoselective hydrofluorination method for the synthesis of Z isomers of vinyl fluorides from alkynes containing unexplored SF5 and SF4 groups. Our strategy employed tetrabutylammonium fluoride (TBAF) as a fluorine source. It demonstrates high compatibility with aryls, biaryls, heteroaryls, and tert-alkyl groups, allowing facile incorporation of SF5 and SF4 groups across the triple bond without any transition-metal catalysts. This approach avoids the potential decomposition of the SF5 or SF4 units via coordination with transition metals or acidic protic sources. Remarkably, this transformation proceeded at room temperature without any additional additives, providing the Z isomer of vinyl fluorides in excellent yield and high selectivity. The presence of a water molecule as a hydrate in TBAF is essential for efficient conversion. This methodology opens new avenues for the synthesis of enchanting SF5 - and SF4 -containing fluorinated vinylic scaffolds, thereby providing advanced opportunities for novel drug discovery and fluorinated polymers.

Expanding the Frontier of Linear Drug Design: Cu-Catalyzed Csp -Csp 3 -Coupling of Electron-Deficient SF4 -Alkynes with Alkyl Iodides

Despite the attractive properties of tetrafluorosulfanyl (SF4 ) compounds in drug discovery, medicinal research on SF4 molecules is hindered by the scarcity of suitable synthetic methodologies. Drawing inspiration from the well-established Sonogashira cross-coupling of terminal alkynes under Pd-catalysis, it is envisioned that SF4 -alkynes can serve as effective coupling partners. To overcome the challenges associated with the electron-deficient nature of SF4 -alkynes and the lability of the SF4 unit under transition-metal catalysis, an aryl radical mediated Csp -Csp 3 cross-coupling reaction is successfully developed under Cu catalysis. This methodology facilitates the coupling of SF4 -alkynes with alkyl iodides, leading to the immediate synthesis of SF4 -attached drug-like molecules. These findings highlight the potential impact of SF4 -containing molecules in the drug industry, paving the way for further research in this emerging field.

Cross Dehydrogenative Coupling of SF4-Alkyne with Tetrahydroisoquinolines

This study introduces a dual-catalytic method for cross-dehydrogenative coupling (CDC) between tetrahydroisoquinolines and Py-SF4-alkyne using visible-light photoredox catalysis. This protocol enables selective C(sp3)-H alkynylation, expanding the synthetic toolkit for SF4-based molecules. Demonstrating efficiency and substrate versatility, this approach opens new avenues in hexacoordinated tetrafluorinated sulfur chemistry and CDC strategies and holds significant promise for drug discovery and materials science.

Fluoroalkylated hypervalent sulfur fluorides: radical addition of arylchlorotetrafluoro-λ6-sulfanes to tetrafluoroethylene

Fluorinated groups are essential hydrophobic groups in drug design. Combining a carbon-free tetrafluoro-λ6-sulfanyl (SF4) group with a polyfluoroalkyl group (RF) provides SF4RF groups, exhibiting high hydrophobicity with a short carbon chain. In this study, various aryltetrafluoro(polyfluoroalkyl)-λ6-sulfanes (ArSF4RF) were synthesized through the radical addition of arylchlorotetrafluoro-λ6-sulfanes (ArSF4Cl) to tetrafluoroethylene. In addition, quantification of hydrophobic constants (πPh) indicated that the SF4 group is considerably more hydrophobic than a difluoromethylene (CF2) group. Further transformation reactions revealed the stabilities and reactivities of these novel fluorinated groups. The high hydrophobicity and synthetic utility of the SF4RF group lead to the potential applications of the SF4RF group in the pharmaceutical field.

Strain-Release Pentafluorosulfanylation and Tetrafluoro(aryl)sulfanylation of [1.1.1]Propellane: Reactivity and Structural Insight

We leveraged the recent increase in synthetic accessibility of SF5 Cl and Ar-SF4 Cl compounds to combine chemistry of the SF5 and SF4 Ar groups with strain-release functionalization. By effectively adding SF5 and SF4 Ar radicals across [1.1.1]propellane, we accessed structurally unique bicyclopentanes, bearing two distinct elements of bioisosterism. Upon evaluating these "hybrid isostere" motifs in the solid state, we measured exceptionally short transannular distances; in one case, the distance rivals the shortest nonbonding C⋅⋅⋅C contact reported to date. This prompted SC-XRD and DFT analyses that support the notion that a donor-acceptor interaction involving the "wing" C-C bonds is playing an important role in stabilization. Thus, these heretofore unknown structures expand the palette for highly coveted three-dimensional fluorinated building blocks and provide insight to a more general effect observed in bicyclopentanes.

Oxidative Fluorination of Heteroatoms Enabled by Trichloroisocyanuric Acid and Potassium Fluoride

In synthetic method development, the most rewarding path is seldom a straight line. While our initial entry into pentafluorosulfanyl (SF5 ) chemistry did not go according to plan (due to inaccessibility of reagents such as SF5 Cl at the time), a "detour" led us to establish mild and inexpensive oxidative fluorination conditions that made aryl-SF5 compound synthesis more accessible. The method involved the use of potassium fluoride and trichloroisocyanuric acid (TCICA)-a common swimming pool disinfectant-as opposed to previously employed reagents such as F2 , XeF2 , HF, and Cl2 . Thereafter, curiosity led us to explore applications of TCICA/KF as a more general approach to the synthesis of fluorinated Group 15, 16, and 17 heteroatoms in organic scaffolds; this, in turn, prompted SC-XRD, VT-NMR, computational, and physical organic studies. Ultimately, it was discovered that TCICA/KF can be used to synthesize SF5 Cl, enabling SF5 chemistry in an unexpected way.

(Hetero)aryl-SVI Fluorides: Synthetic Development and Opportunities

(Hetero)arylsulfur compounds where the S atom is in the oxidation state VI represent a large percentage of the molecular functionalities present in organic chemistry. More specifically, (hetero)aryl-SVI fluorides have recently received enormous attention because of their potential as chemical biology probes, as a result of their reactivity in a simple, modular, and efficient manner. Whereas the synthesis and application of the level 1 fluorination at SVI atoms (sulfonyl and sulfonimidoyl fluorides) have been widely studied and reviewed, the synthetic strategies towards higher levels of fluorination (levels 2 to 5) are somewhat more limited. This Minireview evaluates and summarizes the progress in the synthesis of highly fluorinated aryl-SVI compounds at all levels, discussing synthetic strategies, reactivity, the advantages and disadvantages of the synthetic procedures, the proposed mechanisms, and the potential upcoming opportunities.

Synthesis of Pyridine-SF4-Isoxazolines Using the Functionality of trans-Tetrafluoro-λ6-sulfanyl Rodlike Linkers

The tetrafluoro-λ⁶-sulfanyl (SF₄) moiety has been relatively undeveloped since its discovery in the 1970s. In this study, we synthesized pyridine-SF₄-isoxazolines, in which the two heterocycles are connected by a rodlike trans-SF₄ linker, via the regioselective 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition of pyridine-SF₄-alkynes and nitrones in the presence of triethylamine. SF₄ linkers are a viable alternative to para-substituted benzenes, alkynes, and bicyclo[1.1.1]pentyl derivatives in drug design, and pyridine-SF₄-isoxazolines have potential applications in drug development.

Regioselective Synthesis of Pyridine-SF4-Methyl Ketones via Hydration of Pyridine-SF4-Alkynes

Herein, we report the metal-free hydration of pyridine-SF₄-alkynes, under acidic conditions and with reaction durations ranging from 5 min to 10 h at room temperature, to synthesize pyridine-SF₄-methyl ketones in yields of 59-93%. Further, we demonstrate the synthetic applications of the synthesized pyridine-SF₄-methyl ketones, such as chlorination, NaBH₄ reduction, Baeyer-Villiger oxidation, and the generation of enol-triflates. These compounds hold promise as useful building blocks in the syntheses of a wide range of SF₄-containing drug candidates.

Ethynyl-SF4-Pyridines: Reagents for SF4-Alkynylation to Carbonyl Compounds

The trans-tetrafluoro-λ⁶-sulfanyl (SF₄) unit is medicinally attractive because of its high electronegativity, lipophilicity, and unique hypervalent structure. The trans-SF₄ unit can characteristically connect two independent molecules linearly. However, there is no example of the use of this unit for medicinal chemistry due to difficulties in synthesis. We report the first synthesis of (ethynyl-trans-tetrafluoro-λ⁶-sulfanyl)pyridines (t-ethynyl-SF₄-pyridines) and their use as versatile reagents for the first direct SF₄-alkynylation to carbonyl compounds. The addition reaction of t-ethynyl-SF₄-pyridines to the carbonyl group in the presence of MeLi smoothly afforded pyridine-SF₄-propargylic tertiary and secondary alcohols in high yields.

Synthesis of an Eccentric Electron-Deficient Fluorinated Motif, Tetrafluoro-λ6-sulfanyl gem-Difluorocyclopropenes

Fluoro-functionalization is now recognized as a critical strategy in drug discovery; however, the accessible fluoro-functional groups are limited. We herein introduce an eccentric, fully fluorinated motif, trans-tetrafluoro-λ⁶-sulfanyl gem-difluorocyclopropene 2. This novel motif is highly lipophilic and polarized, enabling a connection of two independent groups via three continuous atoms with a large angle of pseudo cis configuration. The target motif was synthesized via a [2+1] cycloaddition of electron-deficient (hetero)aryl-SF₄-alkynes 1 with an electrophilic difluorocarbene source.

The Supramolecular Structural Chemistry of Pentafluorosulfanyl and Tetrafluorosulfanylene Compounds

The analysis of crystal structures of SF5 - or SF4 -containing molecules revealed that these groups are often surrounded by hydrogen or other fluorine atoms. Even though fluorine prefers F⋅⋅⋅H over F⋅⋅⋅F contacts, the latter appeared to be important in many compounds. In a significant number of datasets, the closest F⋅⋅⋅F contacts are below 95 % of the van der Waals distance of two F atoms. Moreover, a number of repeating structural motifs formed by contacts between SF5 groups was identified, including different supramolecular dimers and infinite chains. Among SF4 -containing molecules, the study focused on SF4 Cl compounds, including the first solid-state structure analyses of these reactive species. Additionally, electrostatic potential surfaces of a series of Ph-SF5 derivatives were calculated, pointing out the substituent influence on the ability of F⋅⋅⋅X contact formation (X=F or other electronegative atom). Interaction energies were calculated for different dimeric arrangements of Ph-SF5 , which were extracted from experimental crystal structure determinations.

A Unified Strategy for Arylsulfur(VI) Fluorides from Aryl Halides: Access to Ar-SOF3 Compounds

A convenient protocol to selectively access various arylsulfur(VI) fluorides from commercially available aryl halides in a divergent fashion is presented. Firstly, a novel sulfenylation reaction with the electrophilic N-(chlorothio)phthalimide (Cl-S-Phth) and arylzinc reagents afforded the corresponding Ar-S-Phth compounds. Subsequently, the S(II) atom was selectively oxidized to distinct fluorinated sulfur(VI) compounds under mild conditions. Slight modifications on the oxidation protocol permit the chemoselective installation of 1, 3, or 4 fluorine atoms at the S(VI) center, affording the corresponding Ar-SO2 F, Ar-SOF3 , and Ar-SF4 Cl. Of notice, this strategy enables the effective introduction of the rare and underexplored -SOF3 moiety into various (hetero)aryl groups. Reactivity studies demonstrate that such elusive Ar-SOF3 can be utilized as a linchpin for the synthesis of highly coveted aryl sulfonimidoyl fluorides (Ar-SO(NR)F).

Pyridine tetrafluoro-λ6-sulfanyl chlorides: spontaneous addition to alkynes and alkenes in the presence or absence of photo-irradiation

A radical addition reaction of Py-SF₄Cl to alkynes and alkenes provide pyridine-SF₄-alkenes and pyridine-SF₄-alkanes under blue LED light irradiation or absence of light irradiation in CPME or without solvent.

Recent developments in palladium-catalyzed C–S bond formation

This review summarized the recent developments in palladium-catalyzed C–S bond formation involving sulfenylation and sulfonylation reactions.

Calcium-Based Sustainable Chemical Technologies for Total Carbon Recycling

Calcium carbide, a stable solid compound composed of two atoms of carbon and one of calcium, has proven its effectiveness in chemical synthesis, due to the safety and convenience of handling the C≡C acetylenic units. The areas of CaC₂ application are very diverse, and the development of calcium-mediated approaches resolves several important challenges. This Review aims to discuss the laboratory chemistry of calcium carbide, and to go beyond its frontiers to organic synthesis, life sciences, materials and construction, carbon dioxide capturing, alloy manufacturing, and agriculture. The recyclability of calcium carbide and the availability of large-scale industrial production facilities, as well as the future possibility of fossil-resource-independent manufacturing, position this compound as a key chemical platform for sustainable development. Easy regeneration and reuse of the carbide highlight calcium-based sustainable chemical technologies as promising instruments for total carbon recycling.

Synthesis of aryl and heteroaryl tetrafluoro-λ6-sulfanyl chlorides from diaryl disulfides using trichloroisocyanuric acid and potassium fluoride

A catalyst-free method for the synthesis of (Het)ArSF₄Cl by using trichloroisocyanuric acid and potassium fluoride in acetonitrile is disclosed.

An eccentric rod-like linear connection of two heterocycles: synthesis of pyridine trans-tetrafluoro-λ6-sulfanyl triazoles

The trans-tetrafluoro-λ6-sulfane (SF4) group has been utilized as a unique three-dimensional building block for the linear connection of two independent N-heterocycles, pyridines and triazoles. The linearly connected heterocyclic compounds were synthesized by thermal Huisgen 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition between previously unknown pyridine SF4-alkynes and readily available azides, providing a series of rod-like SF4-connected N-heterocycles in good to excellent yields. X-ray crystallographic analysis of the target products revealed the trans-geometry of the SF4 group, which linearly connects two independent N-heterocycles. This research will open the field of chemistry of SF4-connected heterocyclic compounds.

Synthesis of pyridine trans-tetrafluoro-λ6-sulfane derivatives via radical addition

Pyridine-trans-SF₄-alkenes or -alkanes have been synthesized for the first time via the radical addition reactions of pyridine-trans-SF₄Cl to alkynes or alkenes in good to high yields.

Catalyst-free synthesis of α-thioacrylic acids via cascade thiolation and 1,4-aryl migration of aryl alkynoates at room temperature

A simple and facile catalyst-free strategy has been developed for the synthesis of α-thioacrylic acids from readily-available aryl alkynoates and thiols at room temperature under air.

Silver-catalyzed direct spirocyclization of alkynes with thiophenols: a simple and facile approach to 3-thioazaspiro[4,5]trienones

A convenient and efficient silver-catalyzed direct oxidative spirocyclization of alkynes with thiophenols leading to 3-thioazaspiro[4,5]trienones has been developed under air.

A regio- and stereoselective entry to (Z)-β-halo alkenyl sulfides and their applications to access stereodefined trisubstituted alkenes

A mild and efficient preparation of (Z)-β-halo alkenyl sulfides via the K2CO3-promoted hydrothiolation of haloalkynes has been realized, producing (Z)-β-bromo and (Z)-β-chloro vinylic sulfides in high yields with excellent regio- and stereoselectivity. This approach covers a variety of substrates, including both aryl and alkyl haloalkynes. Meaningfully, it allows a facile access to stereodefined (Z)- or (E)-trisubstituted olefins featuring the iterative cross-coupling of carbon-halide and carbon-sulfur bonds of β-halo alkenyl sulfides.

Iron-induced regio- and stereoselective addition of sulfenyl chlorides to alkynes by a radical pathway

The radical addition of the Cl-S σ-bond in sulfenyl chlorides to various C-C triple bonds has been achieved with excellent regio- and stereoselectivity in the presence of a catalytic amount of a common iron salt. The reaction is compatible with a variety of functional groups and can be scaled up to the gram-scale with no loss in yield. As well as terminal alkynes, internal alkynes underwent stereodefined chlorothiolation to provide tetrasubstituted alkynes. Preliminary mechanistic investigations revealed a plausible radical process involving a sulfur-centered radical intermediate via iron-mediated homolysis of the Cl-S bond. The resulting chlorothiolation adducts can be readily transformed to the structurally complex alkenyl sulfides by cross-coupling reactions. The present reaction can also be applied to the complementary synthesis of the potentially useful bis-sulfoxide ligands for transition-metal-catalyzed reactions.