Organic Photoredox Catalysis as a General Strategy for Anti-Markovnikov Alkene Hydrofunctionalization

Multiphoton tandem photoredox catalysis of [Ir(dFCF3ppy)2(dtbbpy)]+ facilitating radical acylation reactions

Photoredox catalytic radical acylation reactions, utilizing [Ir(dFCF3ppy)2(dtbbpy)]+ (IrIII) as the photocatalyst and α-keto acids as the starting substrates, have recently emerged as an attractive strategy for preparing ketone derivatives. While there is consensus on the importance of detailed mechanistic insights to maximize the formation of desired products, efforts focused on uncovering the underlying elementary mechanisms of IrIII photocatalytic radical acylation reactions are still lacking. Herein, using time-resolved spectroscopy, we observed the efficient quenching of the triplet state, 3IrIII*, via electron transfer from α-keto acids, resulting in the generatation of the reduced IrII. Subsequently, IrII rapidly transforms into a stable IrH+ species through protonation, with α-keto acid acting as a proton donor. Upon absorbing additional photon(s), IrH+ is expected to transform into IrH3, involving further hydrogenation/protonation. Emission and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, together with global analysis, identify the character of IrH3/3IrH3* and corroborate its contribution to representative radical acylation reactions (decarboxylative 1,4-addition of α-keto acids with Michael acceptors, decarboxylative coupling of α-keto acids with aryl halides, and decarboxylative cyclization of 2-alkenylarylisocyanides with α-keto acids), where IrH3/3IrH3* serves as the key species to trigger the second photoredox cycle. These results elucidate the existence and generality of the tandem photoredox catalysis mechanism for IrIII photocatalytic radical acylation reactions, providing advanced insights into the mechanism of IrIII-based photoredox processes and potentially expanding their application in the design and development of new synthetic methodologies.

Addition of Carboxylic Acids to gem-Difluoroalkenes for the Synthesis of gem-Difluoromethylenated Compounds

We herein describe a straightforward protocol for the synthesis of carboxylic esters containing a gem-difluoromethylene unit. Readily available carboxylic acids can act as nucleophiles to add regioselectively to tetrasubstituted or trisubstituted β,β-difluoroacrylates (formal hydroacetoxylation) for the construction of RCO2-CF2 bonds. Thermal conditions are sufficient without the use of catalysts or additives.

Photoredox-Enabled Dearomative [2π + 2σ] Cycloaddition of Phenols

Dearomative photocycloaddition of monocyclic arenes is an appealing strategy for comprehending the concept of "escape from flatland". This brings the replacement of readily available planar aromatic hydrocarbon units with a 3D fused bicyclic core with sp3-enriched carbon units. Herein, we outline an intermolecular approach for the dearomative photocycloaddition of phenols. In order to circumvent the ground-state aromaticity and to construct conformationally restrained building blocks, bicyclo[1.1.0]butanes were chosen as coupling partners. This dearomative approach renders straightforward access to a bicyclo[2.1.1]hexane unit fused to a cyclic enone moiety, which further contributed as a synthetic linchpin for postmodifications. Mechanistic experiment advocates for a plausible onset from both the reactants, depending on the redox potential.

Visible Light Induced C-H/N-H and C-X Bonds Reactions

Herein, we report efficient visible light-induced photoredox reactions of C–H/N–H and C–X Bonds. These methods have provided access to varied portfolio of synthetically important γ-ketoesters, azaspirocyclic cyclohexadienones spirocyclohexadienones, multisubstituted benzimidazole derivatives, substituted N,2-diarylacetamide, 2-arylpyridines and 2-arylquinolines in good yields and under mild conditions. Moreover, we have successfully discussed the construction through visible light-induction by an intermolecular radical addition, dearomative cyclization, aryl migration and desulfonylation. Similarly, we also spotlight the visible light-catalyzed aerobic C–N bond activation from well-known building blocks through cyclization, elimination and aromatization. The potential use of a wide portfolio of simple ketones and available primary amines has made this transformation very attractive.

An organophotoredox-catalyzed redox-neutral cascade involving N-(acyloxy)phthalimides and maleimides

A mild and efficient organophotoredox-catalyzed redox-neutral cascade involving maleimides and N-(acyloxy)phthalimides allowing the synthesis of otherwise inaccessible Z-selective alkoxy-alkylidenesuccinimides is achieved.

Photocatalytic Umpolung of N- and O-substituted alkenes for the synthesis of 1,2-amino alcohols and diols

We report an organophotocatalytic 1,2-oxyalkynylation of ene-carbamates and enol ethers using Ethynyl BenziodoXolones (EBXs). 1-Alkynyl-1,2-amino alcohols and diols were obtained in up to 89% yield. Photocatalytic formation of radical cations led to Umpolung of the innate reactivity of the alkenes, enabling addition of a nucleophilic benzoate followed by radical alkynylation.

Photocatalytic Umpolung with organic dyes overcoming the innate nucleophilicity of enecarbamates and enol ethers for oxyalkynylation with EBX reagents to access 1-alkynyl-1,2-amino alcohols and diols.

Pushing the boundaries of C–H bond functionalization chemistry using flow technology

C–H functionalization chemistry is one of the most vibrant research areas within synthetic organic chemistry. While most researchers focus on the development of small-scale batch-type transformations, more recently such transformations have been carried out in flow reactors to explore new chemical space, to boost reactivity or to enable scalability of this important reaction class. Herein, an up-to-date overview of C–H bond functionalization reactions carried out in continuous-flow microreactors is presented. A comprehensive overview of reactions which establish the formal conversion of a C–H bond into carbon–carbon or carbon–heteroatom bonds is provided; this includes metal-assisted C–H bond cleavages, hydrogen atom transfer reactions and C–H bond functionalizations which involve an SE-type process to aromatic or olefinic systems. Particular focus is devoted to showcase the advantages of flow processing to enhance C–H bond functionalization chemistry. Consequently, it is our hope that this review will serve as a guide to inspire researchers to push the boundaries of C–H functionalization chemistry using flow technology.

Three-Component Olefin Dicarbofunctionalization Enabled by Nickel/Photoredox Dual Catalysis

An intermolecular, photocatalytic dicarbofunctionalization (DCF) of olefins enabled by the merger of Giese-type addition with Ni/photoredox dual catalysis has been realized. Capitalizing on the rapid addition of 3° radicals to alkenes and their reluctance toward single electron metalation to Ni complexes, regioselective alkylation and arylation of olefins is possible. This dual catalytic method not only permits elaborate species to be assembled from commodity materials, but also allows quaternary and tertiary centers to be installed in a singular, chemoselective olefin difunctionalization. This multicomponent process occurs under exceptionally mild conditions, compatible with a diverse range of functional groups and synthetic handles such as pinacolboronate esters. This technology was directly applied to the synthesis of an intermediate to a preclinical candidate (TK-666) and its derivatives.

Anti-Markovnikov Hydroazidation of Activated Olefins via Organic Photoredox Catalysis

Organic azides serve as synthetically useful surrogates for primary amines, a functional group which is ubiquitous in bioactive and medicinally relevant molecules. Historically, the formal hydroazidation of simple activated olefins and styrenes has proven difficult due to the inherent propensity of these compounds to oligomerize. Herein is disclosed a method for the anti-Markovnikov hydroazidation of activated olefins, catalyzed by an organic acridinium salt under irradiation from blue LEDs. This method is applicable to a variety of substituted and terminal styrenes and several vinyl ethers, yielding synthetically versatile hydroazidation products in moderate to excellent yield.

Photoinitiated carbonyl-metathesis: deoxygenative reductive olefination of aromatic aldehydes via photoredox catalysis

Carbonyl–carbonyl olefination, known as McMurry reaction, represents a powerful strategy for the construction of olefins.

Carbonyl–carbonyl olefination, known as McMurry reaction, represents a powerful strategy for the construction of olefins. However, catalytic variants that directly couple two carbonyl groups in a single reaction are less explored. Here, we report a photoredox-catalysis that uses B₂pin₂ as terminal reductant and oxygen trap allowing for deoxygenative olefination of aromatic aldehydes under mild conditions. This strategy provides access to a diverse range of symmetrical and unsymmetrical alkenes with moderate to high yield (up to 83%) and functional-group tolerance. To follow the reaction pathway, a series of experiments were conducted including radical inhibition, deuterium labelling, fluorescence quenching and cyclic voltammetry. Furthermore, NMR studies and DFT calculations were combined to detect and analyze three active intermediates: a cyclic three-membered anionic species, an α-oxyboryl carbanion and a 1,1-benzyldiboronate ester. Based on these results, we propose a mechanism for the C Created by potrace 1.16, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2019 ]]> C bond generation involving a sequential radical borylation, “bora-Brook” rearrangement, B₂pin₂-mediated deoxygenation and a boron-Wittig process.

Metal-free visible light photoredox enables generation of carbyne equivalents via phosphonium ylide C-H activation

Carbyne, an interesting synthetic intermediate, has recently been generated from hypervalent iodine precursors via photoredox catalysis. Given the underexplored chemistry of carbyne, due to the paucity of carbyne sources, we are intrigued to discover a new source for this reactive species from classical reagents - phosphonium ylides. Our novel strategy employing phosphonium ylides in an olefin hydrocarbonation reaction features a facile approach for constructing carbon-carbon bonds through metal-free and benign reaction conditions. Moreover, the hydrocarbonation products were delivered in a highly regioselective manner.

Photo-Organocatalytic Enantioselective Radical Cascade Reactions of Unactivated Olefins

Radical cascade processes are invaluable for their ability to rapidly construct complex chiral molecules from simple substrates. However, implementing catalytic asymmetric variants is difficult. Reported herein is a visible‐light‐mediated organocatalytic strategy that exploits the excited‐state reactivity of chiral iminium ions to trigger radical cascade reactions with high enantioselectivity. By combining two sequential radical‐based bond‐forming events, the method converts unactivated olefins and α,β‐unsaturated aldehydes into chiral adducts in a single step. The implementation of an asymmetric three‐component radical cascade further demonstrates the complexity‐generating power of this photochemical strategy.

Photoorganocatalysis, small organic molecules and light in the service of organic synthesis: the awakening of a sleeping giant

Photocatalysis, the use of light to promote organic transformations, is a field of catalysis that has received limited attention despite existing for over 100 years. With the revolution of photoredox catalysis in 2008, the rebirth or awakening of the field of photoorganocatalysis has brought new ideas and reactions to organic synthesis. This review will focus on the sudden outburst of literature regarding the use of small organic molecules as photocatalysts after 2013. In particular, it will focus on acridinium salts, benzophenones, pyrylium salts, thioxanthone derivatives, phenylglyoxylic acid, BODIPYs, flavin derivatives, and classes of organic molecules as catalysts for the photocatalytic generation of C-C and C-X bonds.

Photocatalytic acylarylation of unactivated alkenes with diaryliodonium salts toward indanones and related compounds

A photocatalytic acylarylation of unactivated alkenes using diaryliodonium salts is described, giving 2-benzyl indanones and related compounds in promising yields with excellent diastereoselectivity.

Visible-light induced three-component alkynyl-difluoroalkylation of unactivated alkenes

A visible-light induced three-component alkynyl-fluoroalkylation of unactivated alkenes is described, giving a facile access to β-fluoroalkylated alkynes under room temperature conditions.

Synthesis of Chiral Tetrahydrofurans and Pyrrolidines by Visible-Light-Mediated Deoxygenation

The synthesis of chiral tetrahydrofurans and pyrrolidines starting from 1,2-diols or β-amino alcohols, respectively, by visible-light-mediated deoxygenation is described. Easily accessible monoallylated/propargylated substrates were activated either as inexpensive ethyl oxalates or as recyclable 3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)benzoates to generate alkyl radicals suitable for 5-exo-trig/5-exo-dig cyclizations under visible-light irradiation.

Synthesis of N,N-dimethylaminopyrene-modified short peptides for chemical photocatalysis

The synthesis of peptide-based photocatalysts that use 1-N,N-dimethylaminopyrene as chromophore and their application in photocatalysis is reported. The copper(I)-catalyzed alkyne-azide cycloaddition was applied as key step to prepare the peptide-pyrene conjugates in quantitative yields for different short peptide sequences. The photocatalysts were evaluated for the nucleophilic addition of methanol to 1,1-diphenylethylenes to products with Markovnikov-type orientation The short peptides contain arginine as substrate binding site during photocatalysis, and thus, the reaction was performed without the additive triethylamine that was previously applied as electron shuttle. Full conversion of the substrate and good yields for the addition product were achieved. Copyright © 2017 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

A photoredox-neutral Smiles rearrangement of 2-aryloxybenzoic acids

The radical Smiles rearrangement of 2-aryloxybenzoic acids can be promoted by visible light at room temperature, in the presence of air and water, and free of noble metals.

Recent developments in alkene hydro-functionalisation promoted by homogeneous catalysts based on earth abundant elements: formation of C-N, C-O and C-P bond

This Perspective article provides an overview of the recent advancements in the field of intra- and inter-molecular C-N, C-O and C-P bond formation by hydroamination, hydroalkoxylation, hydrophosphination, hydrophosphonylation or hydrophosphinylation of unactivated alkenes, including allenes, 1,3-dienes and strained alkenes, promoted by (chiral) homogeneous catalysts based on earth abundant elements of the s and p blocks, the first row transition metals and the rare-earth metals. The relevant literature from 2009 until late 2014 has been covered.

Operationally simple hydrotrifluoromethylation of alkenes with sodium triflinate enabled by Ir photoredox catalysis

We report herein a single component Ir photoredox catalyst which is capable of catalyzing the hydrotrifluoromethylation of terminal alkenes and Michael acceptors with sodium triflinate (Langlois reagent) in methanol under irradiation at room temperature. Various synthetically useful functional groups, including ester, amide, ether, aldehyde, sulfone, ketone and aryl boronate, are well tolerated in this reaction.

Visible light-photocatalysed carbazole synthesis via a formal (4+2) cycloaddition of indole-derived bromides and alkynes

We successfully developed an unprecedented route to carbazole synthesis through a visible light-photocatalysed formal (4+2) cycloaddition of indole-derived bromides and alkynes. This novel protocol features extremely mild conditions, a broad substrate scope and high reaction efficiency.

Photocatalytic oxidation of iron(ii) complexes by dioxygen using 9-mesityl-10-methylacridinium ions

Photocatalytic oxidation of iron(ii) complexes by dioxygen occurred using the organic photocatalysts, 9-mesityl-10-methylacridinium ion and 2-phenyl-4-(1-naphthyl) quinolinium ion (QuPh⁺-NA), in the presence of triflic acid in acetonitrile under visible light irradiation.

Iron-mediated oxidative C–H coupling of arenes and alkenes directed by sulfur: an expedient route to dihydrobenzofurans

A route to medicinally-relevant dihydrobenzofurans utilises a sulfur-directed, iron-mediated C–H ortho-coupling of arenes and alkenes, and a palladium-catalysed heterocyclisation.

Sequential Oxidative α-Cyanation/Anti-Markovnikov Hydroalkoxylation of Allylamines

Iron-catalyzed oxidative α-cyanations at tertiary allylamines in the allylic position are followed by anti-Markovnikov additions of alcohols across the vinylic CC double bonds of the initially generated α-amino nitriles. These consecutive reactions generate 2-amino-4-alkoxybutanenitriles from three reactants (allylamines, trimethylsilyl cyanide, and alcohols) in one reaction vessel at ambient temperature.

Recent synthetic additions to the visible light photoredox catalysis toolbox

The boom in visible light photoredox catalysis (VLPC) research has demonstrated that this novel synthetic approach is here to stay. VLPC enables reactive radical intermediates to be catalytically generated at ambient temperature, a feat not generally allowed through traditional pyrolysis- or radical initiator-based methodologies. VLPC has vastly extended the range of substrates and reaction schemes that have been traditionally the domain of radical reactions. In this review the photophysics background of VLPC will be briefly discussed, followed by a report on recent inroads of VLPC into decarboxylative couplings and radical C-H functionalization of aromatic compounds. The bulk of the review will be dedicated to advances in synergistic catalysis involving VLPC, namely the combination of photoredox catalysis with organocatalysis, including β-functionalization of carbonyl groups, functionalization of weak aliphatic C-H bonds, and anti-Markovnikov hydrofunctionalization of alkenes; dual catalysis with gold or with nickel, photoredox catalysis as an oxidation promoter in transition metal catalysis, and acid-catalyzed enantioselective radical addition to π systems.

Photocatalytic generation of N-centered hydrazonyl radicals: a strategy for hydroamination of β,γ-unsaturated hydrazones

A visible-light photocatalytic generation of N-centered hydrazonyl radicals has been accomplished for the first time. This approach allows efficient intramolecular addition of hydrazonyl radical to terminal alkenes, thus providing hydroamination and oxyamination products in good yields. Importantly, the protocol involves deprotonation of an N-H bond and photocatalytic oxidation to an N-centered radical, thus obviating the need to prepare photolabile amine precursors or the stoichiometric use of oxidizing reagents.

Photocatalytic nucleophilic addition of alcohols to styrenes in Markovnikov and anti-Markovnikov orientation

The nucleophilic addition of methanol and other alcohols to 1,1-diphenylethylene (1) and styrene (6) into the Markovnikov- and anti-Markovnikov-type products was selectively achieved with 1-(N,N-dimethylamino)pyrene (Py) and 1,7-dicyanoperylene-3,4:9,10-tetracarboxylic acid bisimide (PDI) as photoredox catalysts. The regioselectivity was controlled by the photocatalyst. For the reductive mode towards the Markovnikov-type regioselectivity, Py was applied as photocatalyst and triethylamine as electron shuttle. This approach was also used for intramolecular additions. For the oxidative mode towards the anti-Markovnikov-type regioselectivety, PDI was applied together with Ph-SH as additive. Photocatalytic additions of a variety of alcohols gave the corresponding products in good to excellent yields. The proposed photocatalytic electron transfer mechanism was supported by detection of the PDI radical anion as key intermediate and by comparison of two intramolecular reactions with different electron density. Representative mesoflow reactor experiments allowed to significantly shorten the irradiation times and to use sunlight as "green" light source.

Metal-free oxidative functionalization of C(sp(3))-H bond adjacent to oxygen and radical addition to olefins

A DTBP-promoted oxidative functionalization of a C(sp(3))-H bond adjacent to oxygen and intermolecular radical addition to olefins without use of any metal catalyst or photoredox catalysis is reported. The reaction has a wide scope of olefin, alcohol, and cycloether substrates, which provides an easy way for direct preparation of α,ω-amino alcohols.

Iron-mediated C–H coupling of arenes and unactivated terminal alkenes directed by sulfur

A sulfur-directed Fe(iii)-mediated ortho C–H coupling of arenes with unactivated terminal alkenes gives products of regioselective alkene chloroarylation.