Visible-Light-Mediated Three-Component Minisci-Type Reaction of 4-Cyanopyridines

Herein we report a metal-free photocatalytic three-component Minisci-type reaction that simultaneously installs both amide and cyanopyridine functionalities into alkenes in a single step. This strategy enables rare C2-selective functionalization of 4-cyanopyridines, exhibiting regioselectivity complementary to ipso substitution at C4. This protocol proceeds under mild conditions and retains the cyano group with broad substrate scope and excellent functional group compatibility, while the absence of cyanide release and metal catalysts aligns with contemporary green chemistry principles.