Structure-Reactivity Relationships of L-Proline Derived Spirolactams and a-Methyl Prolinamide Organocatalysts in the Asymmetric Michael Addition Reaction of Aldehydes to Nitroolefins.

Abstract

L-Proline derived spirolactams and a-methyl prolinamides act as organocatalysts for the asymmetric conjugate addition of aldehydes to nitroolefins in excellent yields, with good diastereoselectivity and enantioselectivity. Furthermore, low catalyst loadings (5 mol%) and a low aldehyde molar excess (1.5 molar equivalents) were achieved