Development of new DMAP-related organocatalysts for use in the Michael addition reaction of β-ketoesters in water

A general and efficient protocol for the Michael addition reactions of beta-ketoesters in pure water has been developed. The reactions are successfully catalyzed by newly designed DMAP-related organocatalysts such as 4-(didecylamino)pyridine, and the desired Michael adducts are obtained in good to high yields (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.