Enhancing sustainability and reducing cost in C(sp2)–C(sp3) cross-electrophile coupling via organic photoredox catalysis

Abstract: Active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) are becoming more structurally complex, with increased saturation. Multi-step approaches using harsh reaction conditions have traditionally been employed to form such C(sp2)–C(sp3) and C(sp3)–C(sp3) bonds. Photochemistry can provide access to these complex molecules with high selectivity via milder and greener reaction conditions. In this talk, we will highlight the screening and optimization of a Ni/photoredox-catalyzed crosselectrophile coupling reaction to access the core structure of an API. Multiple rounds of highthroughput screening were performed to replace more commonly used Ir-based photocatalysts with a cheaper organic photocatalyst and silane reductants with amine reductants. The best conditions from the batch screening reactions were then optimized for scale-up in continuous flow.