Cover Feature: N‐(aminobenzyliden)phthalimides as a New Redox Mediator Family for the Selective Indirect Reduction of Benzyl or Allyl Halides (ChemCatChem 15/2023)

The Cover Feature shows “N-amino Benz” (N-(aminobenzyliden)- phthalimide) the protagonist of this article as an enthusiastic young scientist sharing his work. He shows a molecular redox catalytic reductive reaction discovered with benzyl bromides and chlorides to produce benzyl radicals to more experienced colleagues in the area at an informal seminar. After all, it is not that usual to have a new organic redox mediator for reduction!! An additional feature to the discovered reactivity, depicted in the blackboard, is the possibility to generate a C-C bonds. Of course, science demands discussion and Prof. Dr. Anne Tracy N (Antracene) is the first to ask questions, Prof. Dr. P. Rene (Pyrene) is waiting for his turn, meanwhile Prof. Dr. Nick Salen (Ni(II)-Salen) is relaxed enjoying a cup of coffee. The emeritus Prof. Dr. Nick Cyclam (Ni(II)-Cyclam) a memorable member of the group is in the wall painting, who made excellent contributions to the area is also present. In their Research Article, Bernardo A. Frontana-Uribe and co-workers demonstrate that N-(aminobenzyliden)phthalimides can act as a new redox mediator family for the selective indirect reduction of benzyl or allyl halides. This reaction gives easy access to reactive alkyl radicals, which in the presence of diethyl fumarate yields 2-benzylsuccinate diethyl ester in moderate yields; this reaction is unattainable by direct electrochemical reduction. More information can be found in the Research Article by Bernardo A. Frontana-Uribe and co-workers.