Catalytic asymmetric synthesis using feedstocks: an enantioselective route to 2-arylpropionic acids and 1-arylethyl amines via hydrovinylation of vinyl arenes.
A three-step procedure for the synthesis of 2-arylpropionic acids (profens) from vinyl arenes in nearly enantiomerically pure form has been developed. Excellent yields (>97%), regioselectivities (>99%), and enantioselectivities (>97% ee) for the desired branched products were obtained in the asymmetric hydrovinylation reactions of vinyl arenes, and the products from these reactions were transformed into 2-arylpropionic acids via oxidative degradation. Subsequent Curtius or Schmidt rearrangements of these acids provided highly valued 1-arylethyl amines, including a prototypical primary amine with an alpha-chiral tertiary N-alkyl group, in very good yields.
Smith
Craig R
CR
Department of Chemistry, The Ohio State University, 100 W 18th Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210, USA.
RajanBabu
T V
TV