Improved Conditions for the Proline-Catalyzed Aldol Reaction of Acetone with Aliphatic Aldehydes

Dedicated to Max Malacria on the occasion of his 65^th birthday

Abstract

The proline-catalyzed asymmetric aldol reaction between aliphatic aldehydes and acetone has, to date, remained underdeveloped. Challenges in controlling this reaction include avoiding undesired side reactions such as aldol condensation and self-aldolization. In recent years we have developed optimized conditions, which enable high yields and good to excellent enantioselectivities, and which are presented in this communication.

Key words

aldehydes - aldol reaction - asymmetric catalysis - organocatalysis - proline

• References and Notes

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