The radical chemistry of N-sulfenyl phthalimides/succinimides for C S bonds formation

Reactions involving CS bonds construction occupy a privileged position in synthetic chemistry due to the ubiquity of CS bonds in natural products, pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and materials. Over the past decades, radical reaction as a complementary way to conventional ionic chemistry allows facile access to CS bonds under green and mild conditions, and has attracted considerable attention. In this regard, the commonly-used radical sulfenylating reagents are mainly limited to thiols and disulfides. To satisfy the diverse synthesis of organosulfides, continuous efforts have been therefore devoted to the development of alternative radical sulfenylating reagents. In recent years, the use of radical chemistry of N-sulfenyl phthalimides or N-sulfenyl succinimides provides a promising and practical alternative platform for CS bonds formation and plays an irreplaceable role in some cases. Herein, we will provide an overview of recent advances in radical sulfenylation involving N-sulfenyl phthalimides/succinimides as radical precursors or acceptors for CS bonds formation. In particular, research background, substrate applicability, reaction mechanism as well as future challenge are mainly discussed.