An enantioselective synthesis of α-alkylated pyrroles via cooperative isothiourea/palladium catalysis

Herein we describe the direct enantioselective Lewis base/Pd catalysed alpha-allylation of pyrrole acetic acid esters. This provides high isolated yields of highly enantioenriched products and exhibits broad reaction scope with respect to both reaction partners. The products can be readily elaborated in a manner which points towards potential applications in target directed synthesis.