The one-step copper-mediated regioselective
formation of the C8–S bond for purine derivatives
with arylthiols was
achieved using air as the green oxidant in the presence of 1.0 equiv
of Na2CO3 and stoichiometric CuCl and 1,10-phenanthroline
monohydrate. This method provides an economical, easy-to-handle, and
effective method for the synthesis of 8-sulfenylpurine derivatives
in moderate to excellent yields. The reaction is selective for C8
over C2 and C6. It also tolerates a free amine on the purine, and
it has a wide substrate scope.