Benzyl Alcohol\nFunctionalization of [1.1.1]Propellane\nwith Alkanes and Aldehydes

Bicyclo[1.1.1]pentanes (BCPs) play a crucial role in\ndrug discovery\nresearch as C(sp<sup>3</sup>)-rich bioisosteres of benzene rings.\nHowever, the preparation of BCPs with strong alkane C(sp<sup>3</sup>)–H bonds has not been reported to date. In this study, we\nreported a method for light-induced benzyl alcohol functionalization\nof [1.1.1]propellane with aliphatic hydrocarbons (which have not previously\nbeen explored for this purpose) and aldehydes under metal- and photocatalyst-free\nconditions. The BCP products could be transformed into various useful\nderivatives, demonstrating the utility of the method. Notably, we\nachieved the synthesis of functionalized BCPs with simple alkanes.