Here we described a catalytic application of pyridine-borane complex for the direct amidation of carboxylic acids and amines. This protocol features a low catalyst loading (0.2–10 mol %), broad substrate scope, good functional group compatibility, and affording the amides in high yields.

Abstract

Pyridine-borane complex was widely used as a reducing agent, but the exploration of such reagent as a catalyst for amidation of carboxylic acids are still unknown. Here we reported the first example of direct amidation of carboxylic acids catalyzed by pyridine-borane complexes. This protocol features a low catalyst loading (0.2–10 mol %), broad substrate scope, good functional group compatibility, and affording the amides in high yields.