Recent advances in visible-light photoredox-catalyzed nitrogen radical cyclization

Visible-light photoredox catalysis is a powerful and attractive strategy for organic molecule activation and new reaction design owing to its environmental-friendly characteristics and unique catalytic mechanisms, and has found wide applications in organic synthesis. This catalytic strategy enables controllable generation of diverse nitrogen-centered radicals (NCRs) under mild conditions, providing access to construction of diverse nitrogen-containing compounds. In this review, we critically illustrate the recent advances in the field of visible-light photoredox-catalyzed cyclization of nitrogen-centered radicals, based on the different radical precursors and activation modes. Wherever possible, particular emphasis is also put on working models and synthetic applications.