Combining enzyme and photoredox catalysis for the synthesis of quinazolines

Herein, a novel one-pot strategy combining an enzyme and visible-light catalysis for the synthesis of quinazoline derivatives from 2-aminobenzylamine and methyl benzoylformate is described for the first time. The reaction comprises enzyme-catalyzed hydrolysis, visible-light-activated decarboxylation, and oxidation cyclization. A series of reactions between 2-aminobenzylamine and different methyl benzoylformates afforded the corresponding products. This strategy was successfully applied to the reaction of 2-aminobenzamide and o-phenylenediamine with methyl benzoylformate. This method has the advantages of not requiring additional additives or transition metals, providing an efficient and environmentally friendly approach for synthesizing quinazoline compounds.