Automated Nanomole-Scale Reaction Screening toward Benzoate Bioisosteres: A Photocatalyzed Approach to Highly Elaborated Bicyclo[1.1.1]Pentanes

Through the application of high-throughput nanoscale optimization, a mild, photocatalyzed, Minisci-like protocol was developed to access highly functionalized 1,3-disubstituted bicyclopentanes. The benzoate-isosteric compounds were prepared using a readily available organic photocatalyst, mitigating the need for precious metals. The strategy described furnished products in synthetically useful yields and was demonstrated to be executable in parallel medicinal chemistry format.