[3+2] Redox-Neutral Cycloaddition of Nitrocyclopropanes with Styrenes by Visible-Light Photocatalysis

The first nitro-group-initiated redox-neutral [3+2] cycloaddition of nitrocyclopropanes with alkenes by using visible-light-absorbing transition-metal complexes was reported. High diastereoselectivities were observed for two quaternary carbon centers on the ring and validated by DFT calculations. Spiro- or polycyclic structures can be constructed smoothly. Cyclic gamma-amino acid derivatives and polysubstituted cyclic amino alcohols can be obtained easily through reduction of the nitro group.