Visible-light induced acridinium-catalyzed selective N-dealkylation of N-heterocycles

Abstract

We have developed an efficient and general strategy for N-chlorosuccinimide (NCS) promoted N-dealkylation of aza-heterocycles via acridinium photocatalyzed electron transfer and hydrogen atom transfer. This approach effectively obviates the need for transition-metal catalysis and is highlighted by wide substrate scope as well as exclusive chemo-selectivities. Remarkably, the method allowed the deprotection of privileged but stable N-alkyl group, thus filling a gap in practical N-dealkylation of N-heteroaromatics.