Iron(II)-Based Metalloradical Activation: Switch from Traditional Click Chemistry to Denitrogenative Annulation

A unique concept for the intermolecular denitrogenative annulation of 1,2,3,4-tetrazoles and alkynes was discovered by using a catalytic amount of Fe(TPP)Cl and Zn dust. The reaction precludes the traditional, more favored click reaction between an organic azide and alkynes, and instead proceeds by an unprecedented metalloradical activation. The method is anticipated to advance access to the construction of important basic nitrogen heterocycles, which will in turn enable discoveries of new drug candidates.