Visible light mediated decarboxylative difluoroalkylations of cyclic N-sulfonyl ketimines: Efficient synthesis of difluoroalkylated Cα-tetrasubstituted α-amino acid derivatives

An efficient decarboxylative difluoroalkylation method of cyclic N -sulfonyl ketimines with difluoroalkyl carboxylates has been developed through visible light-mediated photoredox catalysis process. This protocol provides a straightforward route for the synthesis of difluoroalkylated C α -tetrasubstituted α-amino acid derivatives in moderate to good yields with excellent functional group tolerance under mild and simple conditions. • A visible light-mediated photoredox catalysis process has been developed. • Operationally convenient, yet low-cost readily available raw materials. • An attractive strategy for the synthesis of difluoroalkylated Cα-tetrasubstituted α-amino acid derivatives.