The asymmetric synthesis of tricyclic compounds by the desymmetrization of cyclohexadienones is presented. The reaction tolerated a large variety of substituents at different positions of the cyclohexadienone, and heterocyclic rings of different sizes were accessible. Density functional theory calculations showed that the reaction proceeds through an asynchronous [4+2] cycloaddition.
Keywords: asymmetric synthesis; desymmetrization; dienamines; intramolecular Diels-Alder reactions; organocatalysis.
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