Synthesis of 4-Isoxazolines via Visible-Light Photoredox-Catalyzed [3 + 2] Cycloaddition of Oxaziridines with Alkynes.

A method for [3 + 2] cycloaddition of oxaziridines with alkynes to form 4-isoxazolines via visible-light photoredox catalysis is described. This method is a greener, atom-economical reaction that tolerates various functional groups and provides good to excellent yield. Moreover, the cyclization products can be conveniently converted into tetrasubstituted allylic alcohols and enamines. A mechanistic study suggests that the reaction involves photoredox-catalyzed in situ generation of a nitrone from the oxaziridine by SET.