Electrochemical lactamization with CO2

Abstract

Hydroquinolinone with a free (NH)-lactam widely exists in natural products, pharmaceuticals, and organic compounds. Therefore, developing an efficient strategy to synthesize lactamization compounds is in high demand. Herein, we report an electrochemical lactamization using CO₂ as a carbonyl source under transition-metal-free conditions with moderate to excellent yields, which is eco-friendly and convenient. This approach shows a broad substrate scope and good functional group compatibility. The diverse products, as well as the various late-stage modifications of bio-relevant compounds, demonstrate its potential use in organic synthesis and pharmaceutical chemistry. Mechanistic studies are performed and provide support for the proposed mechanistic pathway.