Quaternary Charge-Transfer Complex Enables Photoenzymatic Intermolecular Hydroalkylation of Olefins

J Am Chem Soc. 2021 Jan 13;143(1):97-102. doi: 10.1021/jacs.0c11462. Epub 2020 Dec 28.

Abstract

Intermolecular C-C bond-forming reactions are underdeveloped transformations in the field of biocatalysis. Here we report a photoenzymatic intermolecular hydroalkylation of olefins catalyzed by flavin-dependent 'ene'-reductases. Radical initiation occurs via photoexcitation of a rare high-order enzyme-templated charge-transfer complex that forms between an alkene, α-chloroamide, and flavin hydroquinone. This unique mechanism ensures that radical formation only occurs when both substrates are present within the protein active site. This active site can control the radical terminating hydrogen atom transfer, enabling the synthesis of enantioenriched γ-stereogenic amides. This work highlights the potential for photoenzymatic catalysis to enable new biocatalytic transformations via previously unknown electron transfer mechanisms.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Alkenes / chemistry*
  • Alkylation / radiation effects
  • Amides / chemical synthesis*
  • Biocatalysis / radiation effects
  • Catalytic Domain
  • Dinitrocresols / chemistry
  • Dinitrocresols / radiation effects
  • Flavoproteins / chemistry*
  • Flavoproteins / radiation effects
  • Light
  • Models, Chemical
  • Oxidoreductases / chemistry*
  • Oxidoreductases / radiation effects

Substances

  • Alkenes
  • Amides
  • Dinitrocresols
  • Flavoproteins
  • 4,6-dinitro-o-cresol
  • Oxidoreductases