Photoinduced synthesis of quinoline derivatives catalyzed by organic photocatalyst at room temperature

Abstract We describe 10-methyl-9,10-dihydroacridine (AcrH 2 ), as an efficient metal-free photoredox catalyst for the synthesis of quinoline derivatives in a cascade annulation reaction. This new approach to construct multiply disubstituted quinoline derivatives is promoted by UV light. Various quinolines and tetrahydroquinolines are accessible at room temperature by single-electron transfer and intramolecular cyclization.