Minisci reaction

The Minisci reaction is a name reaction in organic chemistry. Is a free radical substitution of aromatics, preferably at heteroaromatics, which serves the introduction of alkyl groups. It was first published in 1971 by Francesco Minisci. The Minisci reaction regioselectivity and allows the introduction of a wide spectrum of alkyl radicals. The main side reaction, acylation proceeds. The ratio between the acylation and alkylation will depend on the substrates and the reaction conditions. Due to the simple starting materials and the simple reaction, the Minisci reaction has many applications in heterocyclic chemistry.

Mechanism

First, an alkyl radical is formed from the carboxylic acid used. This is done by an oxidative decarboxylation of the silver salts, and an oxidizing agent. The oxidizing agent is used to re-oxidation of the silver salt. The resulting radical then adds to the aromatic system. Rearomatization of the desired product is liberated. The forming as a side reaction acyl radicals lead to the formation of acylated products.