Asymmetric Transfer Hydrogenation of Densely Functionalized Diheteroaryl and Diaryl Ketones by a Ru-Catalyst of Minimal Stereogenicity

Org Lett. 2020 Nov 6;22(21):8458-8463. doi: 10.1021/acs.orglett.0c03064. Epub 2020 Oct 12.

Abstract

A highly enantioselective asymmetric transfer hydrogenation (ATH) of densely functionalized diheteroaryl and diaryl ketones was developed using Ru-catalysts of minimal stereogenicity. Various ketone substrates with structurally and electronically similar groups attached to the prochiral centers were reduced successfully in good to excellent enantioselectivities and yields. This protocol provides practical and efficient access to chiral diheteroarylmethanols and benzhydrols, which are key intermediates in pharmaceuticals and biologically active compounds.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't