Stereoselective Synthesis of Dioxolanes and Oxazolidines via a Desymmetrization Acetalization/Michael Cascade

The desymmetrization of p-quinols using a Bronsted acid catalyzed acetalization/Michael cascade was achieved in high yields and diastereoselectivities for aldehydes and imines. Use of a chiral Bronsted acid allowed for the synthesis of 1,3-dioxolane and 1,3-oxazolidine products in modest enantioselectivity.