Rh(iii)-Catalyzed intramolecular redox-neutral cyclization of alkenes via C-H activationElectronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Detailed synthetic procedures and characterization of new compounds. See DOI: 10.1039/c4cc00029c

Biologically interesting fused oligocyclic lactams have been prepared via an intramolecular redox-neutral cyclization process. By the proper choice of the substrates with a wide variety of tethered olefins, the less favored C-H bond can be activated and functionalized. This C-H activation proceeds under mild conditions, obviates the need for external oxidants, and displays a broad scope with respect to the substituents. Biologically interesting fused oligocyclic lactams have been prepared via an intramolecular redox-neutral cyclization process.