Regioselective Diels-Alder Reactions of Anthracenes with Olefins via Visible Light Photocatalysis in a Homogeneous Solution

Org Lett. 2024 Feb 9;26(5):1116-1121. doi: 10.1021/acs.orglett.3c04392. Epub 2024 Jan 31.

Abstract

Diels-Alder cycloaddition of anthracene with olefin is achieved in a homogeneous solution via energy transfer under visible light. A series of substrates including electroneutral styrene derivatives can be successfully converted into the corresponding cycloadducts in a head-to-head orientation with high to excellent yields. The high ortho-regioselectivity, mild condition, and broad substrate scope enable promising advances in organic transformation.