Highly Efficient Asymmetric Morita–Baylis–Hillman Reaction Promoted by Chiral Aziridine-Phosphines

Abstract

Continuing our research on the use of organophosphorus derivatives of aziridines in asymmetric synthesis and expanding the scope of their applicability, chiral aziridine-phosphines obtained earlier in our laboratory were used as chiral catalysts in the asymmetric Morita–Baylis–Hillman reaction of methyl vinyl ketone and methyl acrylate with various aromatic aldehydes. The desired chiral products were formed in moderate to high chemical yields and with enantiomeric excess reaching value of 98% ee in some cases. The use of catalysts being pairs of enantiomers led to the desired products with opposite absolute configurations.