Dynamic Kinetic Resolution of Phthalides via Asymmetric Transfer Hydrogenation: A Strategy Constructs 1,3-Distereocentered 3‑(2-Hydroxy-2-arylethyl)isobenzofuran-1(3<i>H</i>)‑one

Dynamic kinetic resolution of phthalides through asymmetric transfer hydrogenation for the construction of 3-(2-hydroxy-2-arylethyl)­isobenzofuran-1­(3<i>H</i>)-one with 1,3-distereocenters has been developed. This procedure is carried out under a mild condition at 40 °C catalyzed with RuCl­[(<i>S</i>,<i>S</i>)-TsDPEN]­(mesitylene) using HCOOH/Et₃N (5:2) as a hydrogen source. A variety of phthalides are smoothly transferred to provide optically pure phthalides with high yields, excellent enantioselectivities, and acceptable diastereomeric ratios