The Xanthate Route to Amines, Anilines, and Other Nitrogen Compounds. A Brief Account

An overview of a convergent, modular route to protected amines, anilines, and related compounds hinging on the degenerate radical addition-transfer of xanthates is presented. Emphasis is placed on the importance of the stabilization of the starting radical by imides and other structures. 1 Introduction 2 The Degenerate Xanthate Transfer Process and Examples of Amine Synthesis 3 Stabilization of Radicals by Imides. Initial Observations and the Radical Aminomethylation of Alkenes 4 More Elaborate Phthalimide-Substituted Xanthates 5 Polyamines and β-Lactams 6 Anilines and Related Derivatives 7 Further Synthetic Variations 8 Outlook and Perspectives.