Rhodium-Catalyzed Transarylation of Benzamides: C-C Bond vs C-N Bond Activation

A rhodium-catalyzed transarylation of benzamides via selective C-C bond activation with arylboronic acids was described, which was distinct from the conventional metal-catalyzed C-N bond activation. This transformation exhibited good functional group compatibility with yields up to 88%, offering a practical approach for the construction and functionalization of benzamides. Preliminary experimental and computational studies revealed the selectivity of metal insertion into the C-C bond or the C-N bond was greatly affected by substituents on the amide's N atom.