Diastereoselective reactions of 1,1′-binaphthyl ester enolates with carbonyl electrophiles

Abstract

Diastereoselectivity in the aldol and the conjugate additions of 2′-hydroxy-1,1′-binaphthyl ester enolates with a variety of carbonyl electrophiles has been examined. The ester enolate generated by BuLi reacts with several aldehydes to give the threo products preferentially with high diastereoselectivity and in good yield. Satisfactory diastereoselectivity has also been observed in the minor erythro derivatives. A mechanistic interpretation of the results is made on the basis of the absolute stereochemistry of the products.