Dual photoredox and nickel-catalyzed desymmetric C-O coupling reactions: visible light-mediated enantioselective synthesis of 1,4-benzodioxanes

1,4-Benzodioxane widely exists as the core structure in many therapeutic agents and bioactive natural compounds. Hence, to access this kind of molecule, an enantioselective desymmetric C-O cross coupling reaction has been developed through dual visible light photoredox and nickel catalysis. Notably, the use of an axially chiral 2,2-bipyridine ligand is the key to success. A series of chiral 1,4-benzodioxanes were afforded in high yields and moderate to good enantioselectivity under mild reaction conditions.