Combining enzyme and photoredox catalysis for aminoalkylation of indoles via a relay catalysis strategy in one pot

Abstract

We report a novel strategy for combining enzyme and visible-light for mild aminoalkylation of indoles. This method features a relay catalysis protocol consisting of enzyme-catalyzed hydrolysis, visible-light excited decarboxylation, and subsequent oxidization of α-amino radicals and the Friedel–Crafts reaction of the iminium ion with indoles. The α-amino-alkylation products were obtained in good to excellent yields (up to 96%) with a wide range of substrates. This work demonstrates the potential benefits of combining an enzyme and photocatalyst in a relay catalysis reaction.