Iron-catalyzed arene C−H hydroxylation

The sustainable, undirected, and selective catalytic hydroxylation of arenes remains an ongoing research challenge because of the relative inertness of aryl carbon-hydrogen bonds, the higher reactivity of the phenolic products leading to over-oxidized by-products, and the frequently insufficient regioselectivity. We report that iron coordinated by a bioinspired l-cystine–derived ligand can catalyze undirected arene carbon-hydrogen hydroxylation with hydrogen peroxide as the terminal oxidant. The reaction is distinguished by its broad substrate scope, excellent selectivity, and good yields, and it showcases compatibility with oxidation-sensitive functional groups, such as alcohols, polyphenols, aldehydes, and even a boronic acid. This method is well suited for the synthesis of polyphenols through multiple carbon-hydrogen hydroxylations, as well as the late-stage functionalization of natural products and drug molecules.