Synthesis of enantioenriched α,α-disubstituted cyclopentenes catalyzed by N-heterocyclic carbenes

Article abstract of DOI:10.1055/s-0028-1083284

The desymmetrization of 1,3-diketones using N-heterocyclic carbenes results in the formation of highly enantioenriched cyclopentenes in good yield. The reaction proceeds through a catalytic intramolecular aldol reaction and subsequent β-lactone formation.