Intermolecular Reactions of Pyridyl Radicals with Olefins via Photoredox Catalysis.

Pyridines are valuable motifs in a number of bioactive and functional molecules. The chemoselective functionalization of these structures from stable and widely available starting materials is a meaningful goal. We have demonstrated selective formation of pyridyl radicals at any position (2-, 3-, 4-pyridyl), through the action of a reducing photoredox catalyst. These radicals readily engage alkenes to deliver high-value products. Alteration of the reaction medium has enabled the use of a diverse range of alkene subtypes in a highly divergent and chemoselective manner.