Synthesis of Aminated Phenanthridinones via Palladium/Norbornene Catalysis

An ortho-amination, ipso-C–H arylation mediated by palladium/norbornene cooperative catalysis is reported. This reaction proceeds through a sequential intermolecular C–N bond formation process followed by intramolecular C–H activation of a tethered arene. The products, aminated phenanthridinones, were generated in moderate to good yields. This method is also applicable to the formation of dibenzazepinones.