Copper-catalyzed domino one-pot synthesis of 2-(arylselanyl)arylcyanamides

Domino C–Se cross-coupling of 2-(iodoaryl)selenoureas with aryl iodides has been accomplished in the presence of a copper(I)–1,1-phenanthroline complex at moderate temperature. The reactions involve intra- and intermolecular C–Se cross-coupling to give the substituted 2-(arylselanyl)arylcyanamides. Aryl iodides having electron-donating and -withdrawing substituents are compatible, affording the targetselanyl ethers in high yield