Development of 3d metal catalysts for redox reactions Herein is reported the application of non noble metal based catalytic systems for the homogeneous oxidation of organic substrates using air specifically in amines and N heterocycles. Simple 3d metal salts have been used in combination with N ligands to facilitate the oxidative cleavage of C(sp3)–C(sp3) bonds. These reactions have been studied using spectroscopic methods to propose plausible mechanistic pathways. We believe such deconstructive strategies can enable late stage functionalisation of pharmaceuticals and the synthesis of drug metabolites.<eng>