In this HOT communication Corey R. J. Stephenson and colleagues at Boston University demonstrate the application of visible light-mediated photoredox catalysis for the synthesis of symmetric anhydrides. This new approach to anhydride formation proceeds via the activation of C–O bonds by the Vilsmeier–Haack reagent formed by Ru(bpy)3Cl2 and CBr4 in DMF. Stephenson et al. demonstrate […]