Arene Dearomatization via a Catalytic N-Centered Radical Cascade Reaction

This photocatalysis methodology leverages N-centered radicals, from easily prepared γ,δ-unsaturated N-arylsulfonyl enamides, to initiate a carboamination/dearomatization cascade reaction that generates stereodefined 1,4-cyclohexadiene-fused sultams. This unique reactivity serves as a general platform for arene dearomatization and the fused heterocyclic products are viewed as valuable building blocks for drug discovery programs.