Efficient C-S cross coupling catalyzed by Cu2O

A protocol for the copper-catalyzed C-S bond formation between aryl, alkyl, or heteroaryl thiols and aryl or heteroaryl halides is reported. The reaction is catalyzed by Cu2O which shows the highest catalytic activity with ethyl 2-oxocyclohexanecarboxylate ligand in DMSO at 80 °C. The corresponding coupling products are obtained with good to excellent yields under relatively mild reaction conditions with good chemoselectivity and functional group tolerance.