Abstract
This review highlights various aspects of the chemistry of the
anions of α-aminonitriles. Their structural features and
their characteristic reactivity are discussed, along with various
methods for their preparation. Special emphasis is given to synthetic
applications of deprotonated α-aminonitriles which have
been used as valuable and readily accessible synthetic equivalents
of acyl anions and α-aminocarbanions.
1 Introduction
2 Structure and Reactivity of Deprotonated α-Aminonitriles
3 Alkylations
4 Opening of Epoxides
5 1,2-Additions
6 Acylations
7 1,4-Additions
8 Reactions of Unsaturated α-Aminonitriles
9 Other Reactions
10 Deprotonation of N-Monosubstituted and N-Unsubstituted α-Aminonitriles
11 Deprotonated α-Aminonitriles in Asymmetric Synthesis
12 Conclusions
Key words
aminonitriles - carbanions - asymmetric synthesis - amines - ketones