Catalytic Asymmetric Synthesis of Thiols

The synthesis of enantiopure thiols is of significant interest for industrial and academic applications. However, direct asymmetric approaches to free thiols have previously been unknown. Here we describe a novel organocascade that is catalyzed by a confined chiral phosphoric acid and furnishes O-protected beta-hydroxythiols with excellent enantioselectivities. The method relies on an asymmetric thiocarboxylysis of meso-epoxides, followed by an intramolecular trans-esterification reaction. By varying the reaction conditions, the intermediate thioesters can also be obtained chemoselectively and enantioselectively.