Asymmetric Vinylogous Aldol Reaction via H-Bond-Directing Dienamine Catalysis

The enantioselective direct vinylogous aldol reaction of 3-methyl 2-cyclohexen-1-one with alpha-keto esters has been developed. The key to success was the design of a bifunctional primary amine-thiourea catalyst that can combine H-bond-directing activation and dienamine catalysis. The simultaneous dual activation of the two reacting partners results in high reactivity while securing high levels of stereocontrol.