Pd(II)-catalyzed C(sp2)-H carbonylation of biaryl-2-amine: synthesis of phenanthridinones

A Pd(OAc)2-catalyzed C(sp2)-H carbonylation protocol of arenes under carbon monoxide atmosphere has been developed. The scope of the carbonylation reaction is broad and tolerates a variety of useful functional groups. This reaction provides a novel and efficient method for the synthesis of biologically and pharmaceutically significant phenanthridinones.