Synthesis of β-amino acid derivatives via photoredox-catalyzed radical cross–coupling of anilines with diazo compounds

Abstract

A photoredox-catalyzed radical cross–coupling protocol for the synthesis of β-amino acid derivatives has been developed. Under mild reaction conditions, readily available N-methyl anilines and α-diazoacetates are used as radical precursors, and nitrogen gas is the only side product. This straightforward and atom-economic protocol enables the synthesis of a range of β-amino acid esters in moderate to excellent yields (up to 96%). This work has not only provided a new and efficient strategy for the synthesis of β-amino acid esters, but also settled the remaining challenges in radical transformation-based synthetic strategies for β-amino acid derivatives.