Organocatalytic Aza-Michael/Michael Cyclization Cascade Reaction: Enantioselective Synthesis of Spiro-oxindole Piperidin-2-one Derivatives

A simple, direct, and highly enantioselective synthesis of spiro-oxindole piperidin-2-one derivatives was achieved through an aza-Michael/Michael cyclization cascade sequence using a squaramide catalyst. The desired products were obtained in excellent yields (up to 99%) and good to high stereoselectivities (up to >20:1 dr and up to 99% ee) under mild conditions.