Asymmetric Epoxidation of Enones Promoted by Dinuclear Magnesium Catalyst

Asymmetric synthesis with cheaper and non-toxic alkaline earth metal catalysts is becoming an important and sustainable alternative to conventional catalytic methodologies mostly relying on precious metals. In spite of some sustainable methods for enantioselective epoxidation of enones, the development of a well-defined and efficient catalyst based on magnesium complexes for these reactions is still a challenging task. In this perspective, we present the application of chiral dinuclear magnesium complexes for asymmetric epoxidation of a broad range of electron-deficient enones. We demonstrate that the in situ generated magnesium-ProPhenol complex affords enantioenriched oxiranes in high yields and with excellent enantioselectivities (up to 99% ee). Our extensive study verifies the literature data in this area and provides a step forward to better understand the factors controlling the oxygenation process. Elaborated catalyst offers mild reaction conditions and a truly wide substrate scope.

Automated summary

Utilizing chiral dinuclear magnesium complexes for epoxidation reactions allows for efficient and highly selective synthesis of enantioenriched oxiranes, providing a new possibility for asymmetric synthesis.