Asymmetric Reactions of N-Phosphonyl/Phosphoryl Imines

The asymmetric reactions of imines continued to attract the attention of the scientific community for decades. However, the stereoselective reactions of N-phosphonyl/phosphoryl imines remained less explored as compared to other N-substituted imines. The chiral auxiliary-based asymmetric-induction strategy with N-phosphonyl imines could effectively generate enantio- and diastereomeric amine, alpha,beta-diamine, and other products through various reactions. On the other hand, the asymmetric approach for the generation of chirality through the utilization of optically active ligands, along with metal catalysts, could be successfully implemented on N-phosphonyl/phosphoryl imines to access numerous synthetically challenging chiral amine scaffolds. The current review critically summarizes and reveals the literature precedence of more than a decade to highlight the major achievements existing to date that can display a clear picture of advancement as well drawbacks in this area.

Automated summary

The asymmetric reactions of imines have attracted significant attention. However, the stereoselective reactions of N-phosphonyl/phosphoryl imines have been less explored. Chiral auxiliary-based asymmetric-induction strategy and the utilization of optically active ligands and metal catalysts have been successfully used to access various chiral amine scaffolds. This review critically summarizes the literature precedence of more than a decade and highlights the achievements and drawbacks in this area.