Amination of aromatic olefins with anilines: a new domino synthesis of quinolines

A new catalytic amination of aromatic olefins with anilines is presented. I n a domino reaction, substituted quinoline derivatives are obtained in the presence of cationic rhodium complexes, such as [Rh(cod)(2)]BF4, and PPh3. Ethylbenzene is formed as a by-product in this new oxidative reaction. The first transition metal catalyzed anti-Markovnikov hydroamination of styrene with anilines occurs as a side reaction. Mechanistic investigations strong ly support the regioselective oxidative amination of styrene as the key rea ction step.