Asymmetric Double Hydroxycarbonylation of Alkynes to Chiral Succinic Acids Enabled by Palladium Relay Catalysis

A Pd-catalyzed asymmetric double hydroxycarbonylation of terminal alkynes was developed by using relay catalysis, providing a highly efficient route to chiral succinic acids (41 examples, 76-94 %, 94-99 % ee). Key to success was the combinatorial use of a Pd precursor with two distinct phosphine ligands in one pot. The synthetic utilities of this protocol were showcased in the facile synthesis of key intermediates for chiral pharmaceuticals.

Automated summary

In this study, a Pd-catalyzed asymmetric double hydroxycarbonylation of terminal alkynes was developed using relay catalysis, which provided an efficient route to chiral succinic acids. This method demonstrated high yields and enantioselectivity for 41 examples and showcased its synthetic utilities in the facile synthesis of key intermediates for chiral pharmaceuticals.