Synthesis of optically active β-lactams by the photolytic reaction of imines with optically active chromium carbene complexes

Article abstract of DOI:10.1021/ja00159a034

Optically active chromium carbene complexes utilizing (S)-valine- and (R)-phenylglycine-derived chiral auxillaries were synthesized and subjected to photolytic reaction with a number of imines. Optically active β-lactams were produced in good to excellent chemical yield and with high diastereoisomeric excess. Procedures for removal of the chiral auxillary to produce the optically active free amino β-lactams were developed.