One-pot synthesis of 11-sulfenyl dibenzodiazepines via tandem sulfenylation/cyclization of o-isocyanodiaryl amines and diaryl disulfides.

A one-pot sulfenylation/cyclization of o-isocyanodiaryl amines has been described for the preparation of 11-sulfenyl dibenzodiazepines. This AgI-catalyzed reaction covers an unexplored tandem process to give seven-membered N-heterocycles. This transformation shows a broad range of substrate scope, simple operation, and moderate to good yields under aerobic conditions. Diphenyl diselenide can also be produced in an acceptable yield.