Iron(II)‐Catalyzed Aerobic Biomimetic Oxidation of N‐Heterocycles

Herein, an iron(II)‐catalyzed biomimetic oxidation of N‐heterocycles under aerobic conditions is described. The dehydrogenation process, involving several electron‐transfer steps, is inspired by oxidations occurring in the respiratory chain. An environmentally friendly and inexpensive iron catalyst together with a hydroquinone/cobalt Schiff base hybrid catalyst as electron‐transfer mediator were used for the substrate‐selective dehydrogenation reaction of various N‐heterocycles. The method shows a broad substrate scope and delivers important heterocycles in good‐to‐excellent yields.