Generation of Alkoxyl Radicals by Photoredox Catalysis Enables Selective C(sp³)−H Functionalization under Mild Reaction Conditions

Abstract

Reported herein is the first visible-light-induced formation of alkoxyl radicals from N-alkoxyphthalimides, and the Hantzsch ester as the reductant is crucial for the reaction. The selective hydrogen atom abstraction by the alkoxyl radical enables C(sp(3))-H allylation and alkenylation reactions under mild reaction conditions at room temperature. Broad substrate variations, including a structurally complexed steroid, undergo the C(sp(3))-H functionalization reaction effectively with high regio- and chemoselectivity.