Asymmetric synthesis of γ-nitroesters by an organocatalytic one-pot strategy

Org Lett. 2012 Mar 16;14(6):1516-9. doi: 10.1021/ol3002514. Epub 2012 Feb 29.

Abstract

An enantioselective synthesis of γ-nitroesters by a one-pot asymmetric Michael addition/oxidative esterification of α,β-unsaturated aldehydes is presented. The procedure is based on merging the enantioselective organocatalytic nitroalkane addition with an N-bromosuccinimide-based oxidation. The γ-nitroesters are obtained in good yields and enantioselectivities, and the method provides an attractive entry to optically active γ-aminoesters, 2-piperidones, and 2-pyrrolidones.