Exploiting Synergistic Catalysis for an Ambient Temperature Photocycloaddition to Pyrazoles
Christopher P Lakeland1, David W Watson2, Joseph P A Harrity1
1Department of Chemistry, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, S3 7HF, UK.
Abstract:
Sydnone-based cycloaddition reactions are a versatile platform for pyrazole synthesis, however they operate under harsh conditions (high temperature and long reaction times). Herein we report a strategy that addresses this limitation utilizing the synergistic combination of organocatalysis and visible-light photocatalysis. This new approach proceeds under ambient conditions and with excellent levels of regiocontrol. Mechanistic studies suggest that photoactivation of sydnones, rather than enamines, is key to the successful implementation of this process.
Related Concept Videos
Cycloaddition Reactions: MO Requirements for Photochemical Activation
Cycloaddition Reactions: MO Requirements for Thermal Activation
Cycloaddition Reactions: Overview
Photochemical Electrocyclic Reactions: Stereochemistry
Selection Rules: Photochemical Activation
Thermal and Photochemical Electrocyclic Reactions: Overview
Thermal Electrocyclic Reactions: Stereochemistry
Selection Rules: Thermal Activation
Conjugated systems containing an even number of π-electron pairs undergo a conrotatory ring closure. For example, thermal electrocyclization of (2E,4E)-2,4-hexadiene, a conjugated diene containing two π-electron pairs, gives trans-3,4-dimethylcyclobutene.

![Cercosporin-Photocatalyzed [4+1]- and [4+2]-Annulations of Azoalkenes Under Mild Conditions](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcloudfront.jove.com%2FCDNSource%2Fteasers%2F60786.jpg&w=3840&q=50)
![[DPEPhosbcpCu]PF6: A General and Broadly Applicable Copper-Based Photoredox Catalyst](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcloudfront.jove.com%2FCDNSource%2Fteasers%2F59739.jpg&w=3840&q=50)