Iron-catalyzed C(sp3)-H functionalization of methyl azaarenes with α-oxoesters: a facile approach to lactic acid derivatives

A highly efficient method for the C(sp3)-H functionalization of methyl azaarenes to α-oxoesters in the presence of iron(II) acetate as an inexpensive, nontoxic catalyst with moderate-to-excellent yields has been developed. This transformation represents a facile approach to medicinally important lactic acid derivatives.