Sustainable Photocatalytic Synthesis of Glitazones via Riboflavin Tetraacetate

High Resolution Image Download MS PowerPoint Slide A more sustainable and versatile method to access antidiabetic glitazones is demanded. Herein, we report the unprecedented photocatalytic coupling of N -protected methylene thiazolidinediones with radical precursors (organoborates or carboxylic acids) under riboflavin tetraacetate catalysis. The methodology accepts various functional groups and affords (Het)Ar-(CH 2 ) n -thiazolidinediones by transition-metal-free organic photoredox catalysis under mild conditions. The applicability of the developed protocol is showcased by the three-step preparation of the antidiabetic pioglitazone drug.