A triple-functionalised metal centre-catalyzed enantioselective multicomponent reaction

An enantioselective multi-component reaction (MCR) was exquisitely developed by using a catalytic model of a triple-functionalised metal centre in a Rh^I/(DHQ)₂PHAL system via multiple coordination interactions. The catalytic reactivity of the Rh^I centres was critically modulated by a complex dissociation process rather than a common ligand exchange process. The developed MCR offers a mild, atom-efficient, and step-economical method to construct 3,3-disubstituted oxindoles with high diastereo- and enantioselectivities. This study provides an efficient example that gives insight into a strategy for the discovery of MCRs by using high-coordination-number transition metals as multiple functional catalytic centres.