Cobalt-Catalyzed C–H Activation/Annulation of N -(Naphthalen-1-yl)amides with Isocyanides: Synthesis of Benzo[ c,d ]indol-2-imines

This study unveils the first cobalt-catalyzed picolinamide-directed C-H/N-H annulation of N-(naphthalen-1-yl)picolinamide with isocyanides, which efficiently forms benzo[c,d]indol-2-imines via peri-C-H activation. Using Ag₂O and mild conditions, it offers a cost-effective, atom-economical route with a broad substrate scope and in situ directing group removal for simplified synthesis and good yields.