[3 + 2] Cycloaddition of Isocyanides with Aryl Diazonium Salts: Catalyst-Dependent Regioselective Synthesis of 1,3- and 1,5-Disubstituted 1,2,4-Triazoles

An unprecedented catalyst-dependent regioselective [3 + 2] cycloaddition of isocyanides with aryl diazonium salts is reported. 1,3-Disubstituted 1,2,4-triazoles were selectively obtained in high yield under Ag(I) catalysis, whereas 1,5-disubstituted 1,2,4-triazoles were formed by Cu(II) catalysis. These catalytic methodologies provide a controlled, modular, and facile access to 1,2,4-triazole scaffolds with high efficiency, broad substrate scope, and excellent functional group compatibility.