Selective reduction of carboxylic acids to aldehydes with hydrosilane via photoredox catalysisElectronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c7cc05570f

The direct reduction of carboxylic acids to aldehydes with hydrosilane was achieved through visible light photoredox catalysis. The combination of both single electron transfer and hydrogen atom transfer steps offers a novel and convenient approach to selective reduction of carboxylic acids to aldehydes. The method also features mild conditions, high yields, broad substrate scope, and good functional group tolerance, such as alkyne, ester, ketone, amide and amine groups. The direct reduction of carboxylic acids to aldehydes with hydrosilane was achieved through visible light photoredox catalysis.