Photoredox-Catalyzed Deoxygenative C–H Alkylation of Azauracils via Xanthate-Activated Alcohols

Abstract

A visible-light-driven method has been developed for the deoxygenative alkylation of azauracils with alcohols, utilizing xanthate salts as alkylation precursors in the presence of tricyclohexylphosphine. This approach features mild conditions, high step efficiency, and a broad substrate scope, enabling the use of primary, secondary and tertiary alcohols as alkylating agents. Additionally, mechanistic investigations suggest a photoredox-mediated radical pathway that involves xanthate intermediates, thereby enhancing the reaction selectivity.