NHC-Catalyzed Desymmetrization of N-Aryl Maleimides Leading to the Atroposelective Synthesis of N-Aryl Succinimides

Although the construction of axially chiral C-C bonds leading to the atroposelective synthesis of biaryls and allied compounds are well-known, the related synthesis of compounds bearing axially chiral C-N bonds are relatively rare. Described herein is the N-heterocyclic carbene-catalyzed atroposelective synthesis of N-aryl succinimides having an axially chiral C-N bond via the desymmetrization of N-aryl maleimides. The NHC involved intermolecular Stetter-aldol cascade of dialdehydes with prochiral N-aryl maleimides followed by oxidation afforded N-aryl succinimides in good yields and ee values. Preliminary studies on rotation barrier for the C-N bond, the temperature dependence, and detailed DFT studies on mechanism are also provided.

Automated summary

This study describes the atroposelective synthesis of N-aryl succinimides with axially chiral C-N bonds catalyzed by N-heterocyclic carbenes, achieving good yields and ee values. Preliminary investigations were also conducted on the rotation barrier for the C-N bond, temperature dependence, and detailed DFT studies on the mechanism.