Asymmetric synthesis of γ-branched amines via rhodium-catalyzed reductive amination

Amines bearing γ-stereocenters are highly important structural motifs in many biologically active compounds. However, reported enantioselective syntheses of these molecules are indirect and often require multiple steps. Herein, we report a general asymmetric route for the one-pot synthesis of chiral γ-branched amines through the highly enantioselective isomerization of allylamines, followed by enamine exchange and subsequent chemoselective reduction. This protocol is suitable for establishing various tertiary stereocenters, including those containing dialkyl, diaryl, cyclic, trifluoromethyl, difluoromethyl, and silyl substituents, which allows for a rapid and modular synthesis of many chiral γ-branched amines. To demonstrate the synthetic utility, Terikalant and Tolterodine are synthesized using this method with high levels of enantioselectivity.

Biologically active compounds often contain a chiral centre in proximity of amine groups. Here, the authors developed a strategy involving asymmetric isomerization of allylic amines, enamine exchange and chemoselective reduction for the one-pot highly enantioselective synthesis of gamma-branched amines.

A metal-free yne-addition/1,4-aryl migration/decarboxylation cascade reaction of alkynoates with Csp3–H centers

Reactions of alkynoates with different types of radical precursors under metal-free conditions affording single-site-addition poly-substituted alkenes were reported.