Enantioconvergent Decarboxylative Cross-Coupling for the Synthesis of α-Aryl Ketones via Metallaphotoredox Catalysis

Photochemical enantioselective nickel catalysis has emerged as a powerful strategy for constructing stereogenic C(sp3)–C(sp2) bonds in organic synthesis and medicinal chemistry. Herein, we report a photoredox/nickel-catalyzed enantioconvergent decarboxylative cross-coupling of α-aryl carboxylic acid derivatives with aliphatic carboxylic acids, providing efficient access to enantioenriched α-aryl ketones. The reaction selectively engages two structurally distinct carboxylic acid-derived coupling partners while suppressing competing protodecarboxylation and homocoupling pathways. This protocol features broad substrate scope, good functional group tolerance, and excellent enantioselectivity (up to 98% ee), providing a modular and practical approach to chiral α-aryl ketones from readily accessible carboxylic acid feedstocks.