The photocatalytic journey of heteroatoms: Illuminating aza-Henry reactions in organic synthesis

Abstract

Heteroatoms play a critical role in synthetic chemistry and the development of organic materials, significantly influencing molecular structure and reactivity. This review highlights the pivotal role of heteroatoms in synthetic chemistry and organic materials, with a specific focus on advancements in photocatalyzed aza-Henry reaction in the formation of β-nitroamine compounds. This study emphasizes the aza-Henry reaction, a highly adaptable approach for the synthesis of β-nitroamine compounds, which serve as crucial intermediates in both medicinal and synthetic chemistry. Their unique electronic and steric properties allow for the construction of innovative reagents, catalysts, and materials with applications spanning pharmaceuticals, polymers, and photochemistry. Special attention is given to the role of visible light and heteroatom catalysts in the synthesis of complex nitrogen-containing compounds. This strategy avoids harsh reaction conditions and expands the substrate scope and selectivity by utilizing heteroatom catalysts in conjunction with visible-light activation, offering a sustainable and efficient strategy for the synthesis of structurally diverse β-nitroamine compounds. This approach not only broadens substrate scope but also enhances reaction selectivity, reinforcing its significance in complex molecule synthesis under environmentally benign conditions.