Intramolecular
atom and group transfers are common steps in radical
cascade reactions that have been utilized in various transformations.
These types of radical translocations (group shifts) are reported
for, but not limited to, alkenyl, alkynyl, aryl, cyano, chalcogenyl,
and boryl groups. However, the intramolecular radical transfer of
an oxygen atom is barely known. Herein, we disclose a radical transformation
that allows intramolecular oxygen atom transfer to alkenes, utilizing
the nitro functionality in nitroarenes as an oxygen donor. Reactions
proceed via iron-catalyzed metal hydrogen atom transfer to alkenes
with subsequent oxygenation resulting in alkene hydration. As compared
to the intermolecular radical oxygenation, which is well investigated,
the intramolecular variant offers advantages, particularly considering
diastereoselective radical hydration of conformationally flexible
alkenes. The aryl moiety connecting the reactive NO2-functionality
to the alkene substrate can be cleaved after oxygen transfer, yielding
products that derive from a formal diastereoselective intermolecular
alkene hydration. On the other hand, the aniline entity resulting
after oxygen transfer can be used for construction of nitrogen-containing
heterocycles.