Skeletal editing step forward as carbon atoms swapped for nitrogen by embracing unreactive radical intermediate

Finding a way to use a typically unreactive radical intermediate has allowed chemists to swap aromatic carbon atoms for nitrogen. The strategy adds to the skeletal editing toolbox and, as it works under mild conditions, the researchers say it offers a way to edit the structure of complex, reaction-sensitive natural products.

Replacing an aromatic carbon atom with a nitrogen is a key goal for organic chemists, as many pharmaceuticals and natural products have nitrogen-containing rings, such as pyridine.