Organocatalytic Synthesis of Triflones Bearing Two Non‐Adjacent Stereogenic Centers

Abstract

AbstractTrifluoromethylsulfones (triflones) are useful compounds for synthesis and beyond. Yet, methods to access chiral triflones are scarce. Here, we present a mild and efficient organocatalytic method for the stereoselective synthesis of chiral triflones using α‐aryl vinyl triflones, building blocks previously unexplored in asymmetric synthesis. The peptide‐catalyzed reaction gives rise to a broad range of γ‐triflylaldehydes with two non‐adjacent stereogenic centers in high yields and stereoselectivities. A catalyst‐controlled stereoselective protonation following a C−C bond formation is key to control over the absolute and relative configuration. Straightforward derivatization of the products into, e.g., disubstituted δ‐sultones, γ‐lactones, and pyrrolidine heterocycles highlights the synthetic versatility of the products.