C2 -symmetric sulfonamides as homogeneous and heterogeneous organocatalysts that mimic enzymes in enantioselective Michael additions

Chiral C2 -symmetric bis-thioureas as enzyme mimics in enantioselective Michael addition

We report herein the synthesis and application of enantiopure C₂ -symmetric primary amine-1,3-bis-thiourea organocatalysts in enantioselective conjugate 1,4-Michael addition of carbonyl containing nucleophiles, to nitroalkenes and N-phenylmaleimide, leading to final products in good enantioselectivities (up to 99%) and yields (up to 99%). We propose supramolecular noncovalent interactions within the organocatalyst's cleft between the substrate and the catalyst, via hydrogen bonding. Supramolecular interaction thus lowers the transition state energy mimicking an enzyme. Mechanism underlying our experimental results is supported by theorical calculations.