Synthesis of m-carboranyl amides via palladium-catalyzed carbonylation

m-Carboranyl amides have been synthesized via the one-pot one-step carbonylation reaction of 1-I-m-carborane with primary and secondary amines in the presence of a palladium catalyst and under carbon monoxide atmosphere (Heck reaction). Different catalysts, ligands, bases, and experimental conditions have been evaluated and the results in terms of yield and formation of by-products are discussed.