Asymmetric synthesis of γ-aryl-substituted GABA derivatives via a highly diastereoselective Rh-catalyzed boronic acid addition at room temperature

Abstract

A highly diastereoselective Rh-catalyzed boronic acid addition to enantiopure sulfinylimines providing γ-aryl GABA derivatives has been described. The reaction proceeds in protic solvents at room temperature and the starting material is readily prepared. The novel protocol enables the introduction of a variety of aryl substituents onto an unactivated sulfinylimine under mild conditions.