Stereoselective dimerization of α-keto amides using samarium diiodide

Article abstract of DOI:10.1016/0040-4039(96)01769-8

α-Keto amides were dimerized in the presence of SmI₂ in THF to give substituted tartaric amides in moderate to good yields. Although the dimerization of the secondary keto amides did not proceed stereoselectively, racemic tartaric amides were p