Photoredox 1,4-Hydroxysulfonylation of Methylenecyclobutane via Carbon-Radical-Mediated β-Scission of Cyclobutane

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Authors: Yahong Chen, Xiaoxiao Sun, Shijie Li, Weiwei Huan, Dengke Ma, Yan Zhang
Cited by: 2
References: 63

Abstract

) bond cleavage is a central challenge in organic synthesis. While radical-mediated β-scission of strained cyclobutanes offers a valuable route to complex molecules, carbon-radical-based ring-opening remains underdeveloped due to the regioselective formation of the cyclobutylcarbinyl radical and high activation barrier issues. Herein, we report a photocatalytic strategy for the 1,4-functionalization of methylenecyclobutanes (MCBs) via a tosyl-radical-initiated cascade. This process involves regioselective addition to the exocyclic double bond, followed by β-scission and a radical-polar crossover, enabling efficient 1,4-hydroxysulfonylation. Mechanistic studies provided evidence of a radical chain process. Key features include a broad substrate scope, a removable tosyl group, controllable three-component reactivity, and the expansion of synthetic methodologies for carbon-radical-mediated cyclobutane ring-opening.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Radical Photochemical Reactions Catalytic C–H Functionalization Methods Sulfur-Based Synthesis Techniques

Publication details

Journal / source
Organic Letters
Publisher
American Chemical Society (ACS)
Volume
28
Issue
2
Pages
866–872
Publication date
1 January 2026
Language
EN