Asymmetric synthesis of α-amino carbonyls (aldehydes, ketones and acids) using lithium (R)-N-benzyl-N-α-methylbenzylamide
Davies SG., Epstein SW., Ichihara O., Smith AD.
The diastereoselective conjugate addition of lithium (R)-N-benzyl-N-α-methylbenzylamide to α,β-unsaturated esters and subsequent enolate hydroxylation, followed by reduction and oxidative cleavage provides a facile route to N,N-protected α-amino aldehydes and ketones. Further manipulation furnishes α-amino acids in high enantiomeric excess.