Synfacts 2009(11): 1239-1239  
DOI: 10.1055/s-0029-1218079
Metal-Catalyzed Asymmetric Synthesis and Stereoselective Reactions
© Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart ˙ New York

pH-Regulated Asymmetric Transfer Hydrogenation of Quinolines in Water

Contributor(s): Hisashi Yamamoto, Pingfan Li
C. Wang, C. Li, X. Wu, A. Pettman, J. Xiao*
University of Liverpool and Pfizer, Sandwich, UK
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
22 October 2009 (online)

Significance

The first organometallic asymmetric transfer hydrogenation reaction of quinoline derivatives is developed using the rhodium/Noyori Ts-dpen ligand complex as catalyst and formate as reductant in water. Conversion of this reaction is greatly dependent on the pH value of the water buffer, as anticipated by the mechanism involving reduction of protonated quinolines.