Iodine-Promoted C(sp²)--H Thiolation of Maleimides with Dimethyl Sulfoxide and Thiols.

Iodine-promoted C(sp²)--H methylthiolation of maleimides using DMSO as synthon has been developed to afford 3-methylthiomaleimides in moderate yields under metal-free conditions. In addition, 3-thiomaleimides were synthesized from maleimides and thiols in the presence of iodine and triethylamine. The methods are simple and efficient for the formation of C--S bond. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]