Overcoming the Challenges towards Selective C(6)-H Alkylation of 2-Pyridone with Maleimide through Mn(I)-Catalyst: Migration of directing group through cleavage of C-N bond for the formation of all-carbon quaternary carbon center

An earth-abundant and inexpensive Mn(I)-catalyzed alkylation of 2-pyridone with maleimide has been reported for the first time, in contrast to previously reported Diels-alder product. The directing group was easily removed after functionalization. Notably, unexpected migration of pyridine ring has been discovered in presence of acetic acid, which also provides unique class of compounds with three different N-heterocycles with an all-carbon quaternary carbon center. Furthermore, single crystal X-ray and HRMS revealed a five-membered manganacycle intermediate. This methodology tolerates a wide variety of functional groups delivering the alkylated products in moderate to excellent yields.