Iminoacylation of Alkenes via Photoredox N-Heterocyclic Carbene Catalysis.

The iminoacylation of alkenes via photoredox N-heterocyclic carbene catalysis is developed with the employment of alkene-tethered α-imino-oxy acids and acyl imidazoles. The corresponding substituted 3,4-dihydro-2 H -pyrroles were afforded in moderate to good yields with good to high diastereoselectivities in most cases. The reaction involves the 5- exo -trig radical cyclization of an alkene-tethered iminyl radical and the following coupling with a ketyl radical from acyl imidazole under NHC catalysis.