Photoredox/Copper Cooperatively Catalyzed Arylalkynylation of [1.1.1]Propellane

Org Lett. 2025 Apr 4;27(13):3446-3451. doi: 10.1021/acs.orglett.5c00882. Epub 2025 Mar 20.

Abstract

We present a sp2-sp3/sp3-sp bond formation reaction through a three-component coupling strategy involving terminal alkynes, [1.1.1]propellane, and aryl thianthrenium salts that are prepared from arenes. The reaction employs a dual photo/copper catalysis system and provides a streamlined approach for assembling 1-alkynyl-3-aryl bicyclo[1.1.1]pentane derivatives with a broad spectrum of functional group compatibility. Mechanistic studies suggest that the generation of aryl radicals and copper alkynide intermediates was involved.