Synthesis of amines via coupling of imines and alkylarenes

Recent advances in selective CH functionalization have resulted in powerful strategies for the synthesis of important target molecules from petroleum-derived hydrocarbons. In particular, alkylarenes such as toluene and xylenes are abundant feedstock chemicals that are emerging as useful substrates in CC and CX bond forming reactions. We review benzylic CH functionalization of alkylarenes for the synthesis of amines. We focus on the direct coupling of alkylarenes and imines through two distinct modes of activation: heterolytic and homolytic cleavage of benzylic CH bonds.