Recent advances in C(sp3)–N bond formation via metallaphoto-redox catalysis

Abstract

The C(sp³)–N bond is ubiquitous in natural products, pharmaceuticals, biologically active molecules and functional materials. Consequently, the development of practical and efficient methods for C(sp³)–N bond formation has attracted more and more attention. Compared to the conventional ionic pathway-based thermal methods, photochemical processes that proceed through radical mechanisms by merging photoredox and transition-metal catalyses have emerged as powerful and alternative tools for C(sp³)–N bond formation. In this review, recent advances in the burgeoning field of C(sp³)–N bond formation via metallaphotoredox catalysis have been highlighted. The contents of this review are categorized according to the transition metals used (copper, nickel, cobalt, palladium, and iron) together with photocatalysis. Emphasis is placed on methodology achievements and mechanistic insight, aiming to inspire chemists to invent more efficient radical-involved C(sp³)–N bond-forming reactions.