Novel α-arylnitriles synthesis via Ni-catalyzed cross-coupling of α-bromonitriles with arylboronic acids under mild conditions.

An applicable and easy-handling Ni-catalyst can be used to promote direct arylation of alpha-bromonitriles with various arylboronic acids to construct alpha-arylnitriles under mild conditions. The methodology tolerates beta-hydrogens and functional groups in the substrates.