Dearomative Michael addition involving enals and 2-nitrobenzofurans realized under NHC-catalysis

In this manuscript, the first enantioselective dearomative Michael addition between alpha,beta-unsaturated aldehydes and 2-nitrobenzofurans realized under N-heterocyclic carbene activation has been described. The reaction proceeds via addition of homoenolate to Michael acceptors leading to the formation of biologically important heterocycles with high yields and stereoselectivities. Their functionalization potential has been confirmed in selected, diastereoselective transformations.

Automated summary

This manuscript describes the first enantioselective dearomative Michael addition between alpha,beta-unsaturated aldehydes and 2-nitrobenzofurans realized under N-heterocyclic carbene activation. The reaction can efficiently form biologically important heterocycles with high yields and stereoselectivities.