Three-Component Radical Cross-Coupling: Asymmetric Vicinal Sulfonyl-Esterification of Alkenes Involving Sulfur Dioxide

A novel catalytic system for radical cross-coupling reactions based on copper and chiral Pyridyl-bis(imidazole) (PyBim) ligands is described. It overcomes the challenges of chemoselectivity and enantioselectivity, achieving a highly enantioselective vicinal sulfonyl-esterification reaction of alkenes involving sulfur dioxide. This strategy involves the use of earth-abundant metal catalyst, mild reaction conditions, a broad range of substrates (84 examples), high yields (up to 97% yield), and exceptional control over enantioselectivity. The reaction system is compatible with different types of radical precursors, including O-acylhydroxylamines, cycloketone oxime esters, aryldiazonium salts, and drug molecules. Chiral ligand PyBim is identified as particularly effective in achieving the desired high enantioselectivity. Mechanistic studies reveal that copper/PyBim system plays a vital role in CO coupling, employing an outer-sphere model. In addition, the side arm effect of ligand is observed. A novel catalytic system based on copper and chiral PyBim ligands is described for highly enantioselective vicinal sulfonyl-esterification reaction of alkenes involving sulfur dioxide. This protocol overcomes challenges of chemoselectivity and enantioselectivity, with mild conditions, a broad range of substrates, high yields, and exceptional control over enantioselectivity. image