I2- or NBS-Catalyzed Highly Efficient α-Hydroxylation of Ketones with Dimethyl Sulfoxide

An efficient method for the direct preparation of high synthetic valuable α-hydroxycarbonyls is described. The simple and readily available I2 or NBS was used as catalyst. DMSO acts as the oxidant, oxygen source, and solvent. A diverse range of tertiary Csp(3)-H bonds as well as more challenging secondary Csp(3)-H bonds could be hydroxylated in this transformation. The reaction is mild, less toxic and easy to perform.