Transfer hydrogenation of pyridinium and quinolinium species using ethanol as a hydrogen source to access saturated N-heterocycles.

Catalytic transfer hydrogenation (TH) for the reduction of heterocycles is an emerging strategy for accessing biologically active saturated N-heterocycles. Herein, we report a TH protocol that utilizes ethanol as a renewable hydrogen source and an Ir catalyst for the reduction of quinolines and pyridines. The reaction is promoted by simple amides as ligands.