Iron-catalyzed C(sp²)-H bond functionalization with organoboron compounds

We report here that an iron-catalyzed directed C-H functionalization reaction allows the coupling of a variety of aromatic, heteroaromatic, and olefinic substrates with alkenyl and aryl boron compounds under mild oxidative conditions. We rationalize these results by the involvement of an organoiron(III) reactive intermediate that is responsible for the C-H bond-activation process. A zinc salt is crucial to promote the transfer of the organic group from the boron atom to the iron(III) atom.