A catalytic asymmetric carbonyl–ene reaction of β,γ-unsaturated α-ketoesters with 5-methyleneoxazolines

Abstract

A catalytic asymmetric carbonyl–ene reaction of β,γ-unsaturated α-ketoesters with 5-methyleneoxazolines was accomplished. The process was based on the utilization of a chiral N,N′-dioxide/Mg^II catalyst, providing the desired products with excellent outcomes (up to 99% yield, >99% ee) under mild reaction conditions. Based on the experimental investigations and previous reports, a possible transition state was proposed.