Iron catalysis enables mild C–Se bond formation via decarboxylative selenylation

Abstract

Selenium-containing compounds play a pivotal role in bioactive molecules, making efficient C–Se bond formation a subject of significant interest in organic synthesis. We report an iron-catalyzed decarboxylative selenylation of alkyl carboxylic acids with selenium sulfonates, enabled by photo-induced ligand-to-metal charge transfer (LMCT). This protocol exhibits a broad substrate scope and functional group tolerance, delivering selenides in moderate to excellent yields under mild conditions. The use of Earth-abundant iron and visible-light activation aligns with sustainable synthetic goals.