Photocatalytic Cross-Coupling of Aldehydes and Alkenes for Aryl Vinyl Ketones by a Single Catalyst

Herein is the first example of photocatalytic cross-coupling of alkenes with aldehydes by a single catalyst without an external photosensitizer and any additives. Irradiation of the aromatic aldehyde and cobaloxime catalyst results in the formation of an acyl radical, which undergoes radical addition with alkene or indole and subsequently β-H elimination to afford alkenyl ketone. The reaction features cheap and readily available raw materials, a broad substrate scope, and mild conditions, even for late-stage derivatization of bioactive compounds.