Catalytic enantioselective direct Michael additions of ketones to alkylidene malonates

Enantioselective direct Michael additions of ketones using (S)-1-(2-pyrroldinylmethyl)-pyrrolidine as a catalyst are described. Michael adducts with up to 91% e.e. were obtained by the reaction of alkylidene malonates with simple unactivated ketones under mild reaction conditions. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.