Copper-triggered three-component reaction of CF3CHN2, nitriles, and aldehydes: highly diastereoselective synthesis of CF3-substituted oxazolines and vicinal amino alcohols

A novel, three-component C-C, C-N and C-O bond forming reaction is described. In the presence of 20 mol% CuO, this condensation reaction of CF3CHN2, nitriles, and aldehydes proceeds to afford CF3-substituted oxazolines in moderate to high yields with excellent diastereoselectivities. Subsequent ring-opening of oxazolines gives rise to the corresponding vicinal amino alcohols.