Abstract
We describe a general transition-metal free synthesis of gem-diboromethyl substituted bicyclo[1.1.1]pentane (BCP) and other related C(sp3)-rich carbocyclic benzene bioisosteres from their corresponding p-tosylhydrazones. These novel functionalized benzene bioisosteres demonstrated unique reactivities towards palladium-catalyzed C(sp2)-C(sp3) cross couplings. The overall transformation can be applied to relatively complex substrates with potential utility in drug discovery.