Multicomponent Tandem Reactions for the Synthesis of <i>gem</i>-Dibromo Compounds via an ATRA/Elimination/Nucleophilic Substitution Process

We developed a metal-free tandem atom transfer radical addition/elimination/nucleophilic substitution of alkenes with CBr₄ and amines to synthesize a series of α-amino-substituted <i>gem</i>-dibromo compounds which are useful building blocks in diverse organic synthesis. Moreover, this transformation avoids the usage of any catalysts and external additives and also exhibits a broad substrate scope and high functional group compatibility, as demonstrated by the late-stage modification of a pharmaceutically relevant molecule (ibuprofen). Notably, secondary amines play a dual role as bases and nucleophiles in this reaction.