Enantioselective Vinyl Radical Addition to Aldehydes via Dual Chromium Catalysis

Abstract

ABSTRACT Achieving stereocontrol in radical‐mediated transformations remains a fundamental challenge, with the enantioselective manipulation of highly reactive vinyl radicals being particularly elusive. Here, we report a dual catalytic system that synergistically merges chiral chromium catalysis with organophotoredox catalysis to address this challenge. This platform enables a three‐component, enantioselective 1,2‐dialkylation of alkynes, directly converting simple alkyl radical precursors, alkynes, and aldehydes into axially chiral allylic alcohols with high efficiency, diastereoselectivity (up to >20:1 dr), and enantioselectivity (up to 99% ee). Preliminary mechanistic and computational studies support a mechanism involving a photoredox‐generated radical cascade, wherein a transient vinyl radical achieves a highly stereoselective carbonyl addition controlled by a chiral chromium catalyst. This work establishes a distinct radical‐based disconnection for the concurrent construction of axial and central chirality, providing a catalytic and stereocontrolled alternative to the classical Nozaki–Hiyama–Kishi reaction and opening new avenues for enantioselective radical chemistry.