Direct β-alkylation of aldehydes via photoredox organocatalysis

J Am Chem Soc. 2014 May 14;136(19):6858-61. doi: 10.1021/ja502639e. Epub 2014 Apr 29.

Abstract

Direct β-alkylation of saturated aldehydes has been accomplished by synergistically combining photoredox catalysis and organocatalysis. Photon-induced enamine oxidation provides an activated β-enaminyl radical intermediate, which readily combines with a wide range of Michael acceptors to produce β-alkyl aldehydes in a highly efficient manner. Furthermore, this redox-neutral, atom-economical C-H functionalization protocol can be achieved both inter- and intramolecularly. Mechanistic studies by various spectroscopic methods suggest that a reductive quenching pathway is operable.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Aldehydes / chemistry*
  • Alkylation
  • Catalysis
  • Cyclization
  • Oxidation-Reduction
  • Photochemical Processes

Substances

  • Aldehydes