Asymmetric reduction of nitroalkenes with baker's yeast

Article abstract of DOI:10.1016/S0957-4166(01)00029-5

Various α,β-disubstituted and trisubstituted nitroalkenes were chemoselectively reduced with baker's yeast to the corresponding nitroalkanes. Stereoselectivities of the reduction of α,β-disubstituted nitroalkenes were modest to low, and e.e.s up to 52% were obtained. Trisubstituted nitroalkenes could be reduced to the corresponding nitroalkanes with excellent enantioselectivities, moderate diastereoselectivities and in good yield.