Direct Acylation of C(sp³)−H Bonds Enabled by Nickel and Photoredox Catalysis

Abstract

Abstract Using nickel and photoredox catalysis, the direct functionalization of C(sp 3 )−H bonds of N‐aryl amines by acyl electrophiles is described. The method affords a diverse range of α‐amino ketones at room temperature and is amenable to late‐stage coupling of complex and biologically relevant groups. C(sp 3 )−H activation occurs by photoredox‐mediated oxidation to generate α‐amino radicals which are intercepted by nickel in catalytic C(sp 3 )−C coupling. The merger of these two modes of catalysis leverages nickel's unique properties in alkyl cross‐coupling while avoiding limitations commonly associated with transition‐metal‐mediated C(sp 3 )−H activation, including requirements for chelating directing groups and high reaction temperatures.