Asymmetric Morita–Baylis–Hillman reaction of isatins with α,β-unsaturated γ-butyrolactam as the nucleophile

Abstract

α,β-Unsaturated γ-butyrolactam was reported as the nucleophile for the asymmetric Morita–Baylis–Hillman reaction for the first time. This enantioselective MBH reaction, promoted by chiral bisthiourea with isatins as the electrophile, was carried out under mild conditions, resulting in 3-hydroxyl-2-oxindole derivatives in good to excellent yields and up to 78% ee.