A highly enantioselective Friedel-Crafts reaction of 3,5-dimethoxylphenol with nitroolefins mediated by a bifunctional quinine derived thiourea catalyst

A useful enantioselective Friedel-Crafts reaction of 3,5-dimethoxylphenol with nitroolefins catalyzed by a bifunctional quinine derived thiourea catalyst 9 was developed. The Michael addition products could be obtained in good to high yields (68-92%) and with excellent enantioselectivities (89-98% ee). Such a reaction is exceptionally attractive in virtue of its simple protocol, ready availability of the starting materials, and practical applications of the products.