Asymmetric Synthesis of Di- and Trisubstituted Cyclopropanes through an Intramolecular Ring Closure

Abstract

An asymmetric synthesis of di- and trisubstituted cyclopropanes proceeding through an intramolecular ring closure of activated chiral benzyl alcohols has been developed. The chiral alcohol intermediates are obtained from asymmetric reduction of readily available 1,4-keto esters and undergo a one-pot activation and ring closure to provide the ester-functionalized cyclopropanes in high enantio- and diastereomeric purity. This methodology avoids the use of hazardous diazo and alkyl zinc reagents commonly employed in cyclopropanation reactions.

Key words

cyclopropane - ring closure - asymmetric synthesis - asymmetric reduction - stereoselectivity

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