pH-Independent transfer hydrogenation in water: catalytic, enantioselective reduction of β-keto esters.
A pH-independent asymmetric transfer hydrogenation of β-keto esters in water with formic acid/sodium formate is described. The reaction is conducted open to air and gives access to β-hydroxy esters in excellent yields and selectivities.
Laboratorium für Organische Chemie, ETH Zürich, Hönggerberg, Switzerland.
Martin A
MA
Ariger
Erick M
EM
Carreira