Organocatalytic asymmetric aza-Michael reaction:: enantioselective addition of O-benzylhydroxylamine to chalcones

A novel organocatalytic approach for aza-Michael reaction of chalcones using commercial and non-expensive O-benzylhydroxylamine and a readily available organocatalyst is provided. The use of this simple protocol results in beta-keto hydroxylamines in up to 60% ee, thus extending the generality of the catalytic enantio selective aza-Michael reaction. (C) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.