Synthesis of Branched Amides and Imides via Cobalt/Photoredox-Catalyzed Hydroaminocarbonylation of Unactivated Alkenes

Abstract We report a Markovnikov hydroaminocarbonylation of unactivated alkenes with anilines via cooperative cobalt-hydride and photoredox catalysis. This protocol features exceptional substrate generality, accommodating mono-, di-, tri-, and even tetrasubstituted alkenes to afford branched amides bearing diverse functional groups. Moreover, the dual catalytic system can be extended to the synthesis of branched imides by employing amides as weak nucleophiles. The synthetic utility is demonstrated through late-stage functionalization of bioactive molecules and streamlined preparation of drug compounds.