Synthesis of β-Thiolated-α-arylated Ketones Enabled by Photoredox and <i>N</i>-Heterocyclic Carbene-Catalyzed Radical Relay of Alkenes with Disulfides and Aldehydes

Abstract

β-Thiolated-α-arylated ketones are perversive in bioactive molecules and serve as potential bidentate ligands for catalysis. Herein, a straightforward protocol to access β-thiolated ketones from aldehydes, alkenes, and disulfides enabled by the combination of photocatalysis and <i>N</i>-heterocyclic carbene catalysis is reported. The sequential radical addition to alkenes and subsequent radical-radical coupling cascade process simultaneously forge C-S and C-C bonds. The mild conditions allow for radical relay coupling with a broad functional group tolerance.