Enantioselective synthesis of α,α-disubstituted-α-amino acids by a sequential nucleophilic addition to nitriles

Article abstract of DOI:10.1016/S0040-4020(98)00503-1

The sequential addition of two different nucleophiles to a tartaric acid-derived nitrile produced carbinamines. The adducts from chelation- controlled addition which are obtained in high diastereoselectivities and yields, were easily converted to α,α-disubstituted-α-amino acids.