Visible light-induced carbonylation of alkenes to construct α-branched aryl ketone derivatives.

We report a practical photocatalytic strategy for alkene difunctionalization by reaction with benzoyl cyanides and boronic acids, efficiently affording α-branched aryl ketones. This method features broad substrate scope and excellent functional group tolerance, and enables quaternary carbon construction, product post-modification, and acylarylation of estrone and clofibrate.