Visible Light-Induced Amide Bond Formation

A metal-, base-, and additive-free amide bond formation reaction was developed under an organic photoredox catalyst. This green approach showed excellent functional selectivity without affecting other functional groups such as alcohols, phenols, ethers, esters, halogens, or heterocycles. This method featured a broad substrate scope, good compatibility with water and air, and high yields (≤95%). The potential utilities were demonstrated by the synthesis of important drug molecules such as paracetamol, melatonin, moclobemide, and acetazolamide.