Photocatalyst-Free Visible-Light Photoredox Dearomatization of Phenol Derivatives Containing Ketoximes: An Easy Access to Spiropyrrolines.

A novel and simple visible-light photoredox intramolecular dearomatization of phenol derivatives containing ketoximes leading to spiropyrrolines has been developed. The protocol uses readily available 1,8-diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-ene (DBU) as the base and electron-donor, visible light as the light source, and the reaction was performed well at room temperature without need of a photocatalyst. Therefore, the present method should provide a useful strategy for synthesis of spiropyrrolines.