Functionalization of DNA-Tagged Alkenes Enabled by Visible-Light-Induced C–H Activation of N-Aryl Tertiary Amines

A highly efficient approach to C(sp3)–C(sp3) bond construction via on-DNA photoredox catalysis between on-DNA alkenes and N-aryl tertiary amines was developed. The methodology demonstrated 55%–95% conversions without obvious DNA damage, as seen by qPCR tests. Furthermore, various functional groups, such as carboxylic acids, aldehydes, and aryl halides, that can be used to create library diversities were shown to be tolerant of the C–H activation conditions.