Electrochemical oxidative CF3 radical-induced lactonization and etherification of terminal and internal alkenes

Abstract

Introducing trifluoromethyl (CF₃) groups enhances drug candidates' properties, improving metabolic stability and bioavailability. This study reports the electrochemical oxidation of Langlois' reagent for CF₃ radical-promoted cyclization, synthesizing functionalized lactones and cyclic ethers from terminal and internal alkenes with good to high yields. Mechanistic insights were supported by cyclic voltammetry, radical scavenger experiments, and DFT calculations. The protocol's efficiency highlights its potential in medicinal chemistry for developing pharmacologically valuable compounds avoiding the use of rare metal electrodes.