Asymmetric Propargylation of Imines

Significance

Propargylation reactions give access to useful chiral products with orthogonal functional groups. The authors have developed the first catalytic asymmetric propargylation of ­imines to provide homoallylic amines in good yields and enantioselectivity. An allenyl boron nucleophile is used, which may act as either a propargyl or an allenyl nucleophile. By using Walphos ligands, only propargylated products are observed.