Catalytic asymmetric formation of carbon-carbon bond in the presence of water

This review gives a brief introduction of the catalytic asymmetric carbon-carbon bond formation reactions, such as aldol, Mannich, Diels-Alder, and Michael reactions, which were carried out in aqueous media or positively influenced by water addition. Many examples are given here to demonstrate that water has a potency to accelerate the reaction and/or enhance the selectivity. The induction of some catalyst structures to the chirality of the corresponding products is also discussed. (c) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.