Reversed-polarity access to α-aminoketones using in situ generated siloxycarbenes from acylsilanes under photo-irradiation

Photo-induced addition reactions of acylsilanes have been developed as an efficient method to access α-aminoketones via in situ generated siloxycarbenes, which act as nucleophiles. This method displays broad substrate scope, including aryl- and alkylimines, and affords the desired α-aminoketones in good to excellent yields without the need for any additive. The obtained α-aminoketones were successfully transformed into various heterocycles such as aziridines and pyrroles, as well as biologically relevant synthetic intermediates. This approach highlights the potential of photo-induced acylsilane chemistry for the preparation of structurally diverse α-aminoketones and synthetically valuable building blocks.