Catalytic Defluoroalkylation of Trifluoromethylaromatics with Unactivated Alkenes

J Am Chem Soc. 2018 Jan 10;140(1):163-166. doi: 10.1021/jacs.7b12590. Epub 2017 Dec 26.

Abstract

We describe a new catalytic approach to selective functionalization of the strong C-F bonds in trifluoromethylaromatic (Ar-CF3) systems. In this approach, single electron reduction of Ar-CF3 substrates (using a photoredox catalyst) results in difluorobenzylic radical formation through a C-F cleavage mechanism. These radicals undergo efficient intermolecular coupling with simple alkenes in a defluoroalkylation process where radical termination is accomplished by a polarity reversal catalyst. This mild catalytic protocol engages a wide range of substrates to give medicinally relevant fluorinated substructures with complete regiocontrol.

Publication types

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