Photochemically Induced Approaches to the Syntheses of β‐Lactams

The synthesis of β‐lactam scaffolds is of paramount importance due to their extensive applications in pharmaceuticals, particularly as antibiotics. Visible light photocatalysis has emerged as a revolutionary approach in this domain, providing a sustainable and efficient pathway for β‐lactam construction. In this review, we meticulously discuss the recent developments in the synthesis of photocatalysed β‐lactam frameworks. A key focus is the Staudinger reaction, traditionally a cornerstone in β‐lactam synthesis, and its adaptation to visible light photocatalysis. We explore the mechanistic intricacies of the Staudinger reaction under photochemical conditions, along with other pivotal cyclization strategies enabled by visible light. By illuminating the novel photocatalytic routes to β‐lactams, this review provides a thorough understanding of the state‐of‐the‐art techniques and sets the stage for future innovations in the green synthesis of these critical compounds.