AZIRIDINE · Direct Functionalization of Unprotected Aziridines via Boryl Radical-Induced β-Scission

Lines connect the coordinator with its partners.

Project objective

β-Functionalized amines are privileged motifs in pharmaceuticals, and agrochemicals, yet their synthesis typically requires lengthy & challenging routes. Aziridines represent attractive starting points, but current ring-opening strategies are restricted to pre-activated substrates bearing strong electron-withdrawing groups, which limits their synthetic utility. No general methods exist for the direct functionalization of unprotected or N-alkyl aziridines into β-amines.This project introduces a new approach that harnesses boryl radical chemistry to directly deconstruct aziridines. Coordination of BH₃ to the aziridine will enable generation of aziridine-bound boryl radicals, which undergo selective β-scission to produce β-aminoalkyl radicals. These intermediates will then be intercepted by radical acceptors to deliver a broad range of β-functionalized amines in a single step.The methodology will progress in two stages: (1) development of photocatalytic ring-opening processes and divergent radical functionalizations using many SOMOphiles, and (2) integration with nickel catalysis to achieve cross-couplings with aryl, alkyl, and acyl partners. Mechanistic elucidation by spectroscopy, actinometry, and photolysis will underpin the design and guide reaction development.This strategy establishes the first general platform for aziridine ring-opening and functionalization without pre-activation, opening a new retrosynthetic paradigm for the synthesis of β-amines. Beyond methodological innovation, it provides a blueprint for the late-stage diversification of bioactive scaffolds and creates powerful shortcuts to molecules of direct medicinal relevance.Completion of this innovative and ambitious project at RWTH Aachen University will be supported by comprehensive training, knowledge transfer, and dissemination, enhancing the Researcher’s career trajectory and equipping him with unique expertise at the interface of synthesis, radical chemistry, and photochemistry.

Original text from CORDIS.

Participants

• RHEINISCH-WESTFAELISCHE TECHNISCHE HOCHSCHULE AACHEN · AachenCoordinatorGermany

Links

• View on CORDIS
• DOI: 10.3030/101270335