Catalytic C–H Functionalization of Trimethylamine.

This article explores the catalytic C–H functionalization of trimethylamine, an important intermediate in the chemical industry. Trimethylamine is often obtained as an undesired by-product, and separating it from other methylamines is challenging and expensive. The authors discuss the development of new chemical reactions that use trimethylamine as a starting material for the synthesis of valuable products, particularly those with a dimethylaminomethyl substructure commonly found in pharmaceuticals. The article reports successful reactions of trimethylamine with various compounds, offering flexible and direct methods for its functionalization. The authors highlight the efficient activation of the α-C–H bond of trimethylamine using titanium catalysts, which allows for the synthesis of various dimethylaminomethyl-substituted products. The article also mentions the successful synthesis of the antidepressant butriptyline as an example of the potential of these new reactions. The assistance of Jessica Reimer and the supply of ampoules by Kirstin Glaser, Karin Grittner, and Frank Fleischer are acknowledged. [Extracted from the article]