Exploiting charged groups for metal-catalyzed meta-C–H functionalization of arenes

Abstract

Direct meta-functionalization of C–H bonds in arene systems is a more challenging topic than ortho-functionalization. In this issue of Chem, the van Gemmeren and Maiti groups independently report on a new approach that relies on substrate-ligand interactions between charged groups rather than coordination of the metal center to a directing group, avoiding large and complex covalently bound directing groups.