Synthesis of chiral γ-lactones via a RuPHOX-Ru catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation of aroylacrylic acids

An asymmetric hydrogenation of aroylacrylic acids catalyzed by RuPHOX-Ru catalyst has been developed, affording the corresponding chiral gamma-lactones in high yields and with up to 93% ee. The methodology has the advantage of utilizing easily accessible substrates and has therefore expand the scope of the resulting chiral gamma-lactones. Furthermore, high catalytic efficiency was achieved in that the reduction of both the C=C and C=O double bonds was achieved in one step. The current work provides an alternative and convenient pathway for the synthesis of a wide range of chiral gamma-lactones. (C) 2019 Published by Elsevier Ltd.