Thiols as Key HAT Catalysts in Photoredox Catalysis: Diversifying the Hydrofunctionalization Landscape of Unactivated Alkenes.

Authors

Tianhao Chen, Renhui Shan, Weichen Huang

Published in

Chemistry (Weinheim an der Bergstrasse, Germany). Pages e71404. Jul 12, 2026. Epub Jul 12, 2026.

Abstract

The hydrofunctionalization of alkenes represents an atom- and step-efficient approach to synthesizing value-added molecules. While visible-light photocatalysis offers a sustainable alternative to conventional transition-metal systems, the functionalization of unactivated alkenes remains a significant challenge. This is primarily attributed to their low inherent reactivity, the instability of radical intermediates, and the limited availability of efficient and selective hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) catalysts. Recently, thiols have emerged as ideal HAT catalysts due to their favorable kinetics and tunable properties. By engaging in synergistic catalysis with various photocatalytic reaction modes, thiols effectively achieve the efficient and highly selective hydrofunctionalization of unactivated alkenes. This review summarizes recent advances in thiophenol-catalyzed photoredox hydrofunctionalization of unactivated alkenes, with a focus on mechanistic elucidation and opportunities in the field.

PMID:
42437410
Bibliographic data and abstract were imported from PubMed on 12 Jul 2026.

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