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Updated: Jun 2, 2026

A Microwave-Assisted Direct Heteroarylation of Ketones Using Transition Metal Catalysis
Published on: February 16, 2020
A Dual Photoredox/Cobalt Catalytic System Enables Markovnikov-Selective Hydroaminoalkylation of Alkenes
Yunosuke Takekawa1, Lilian Geniller2, Kazunori Nagao3
1Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University, Yoshida, Sakyoku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan.
Abstract:
We report a visible light-driven dual photoredox/cobalt catalytic system that enables Markovnikov-selective hydroaminoalkylation of alkenes. This cooperative catalysis generates and couples two radical species derived from alkylamines and alkenes via sequential single-electron and proton transfers (SET/PT) from the α-amino C-(sp3)-H bonds of amines to alkenes. The method enables the installation of secondary or tertiary alkyl groups at α-amino positions of α-amino acid derivatives, peptides, and benzylaniline derivatives using a broad range of alkene partners. This strategy represents a conceptually distinct, redox-neutral, and atom-economical approach to hydrocarbofunctionalization beyond conventional C-H activation pathways.
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