Synthesis 2007(2): 159-186  
DOI: 10.1055/s-2006-958957
REVIEW
© Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart · New York

Recent Advances in Stereoselective Syntheses Using N-Acylimines

Marino Petrini*, Elisabetta Torregiani
Dipartimento di Scienze Chimiche, Università di Camerino, via S. Agostino 1, 62032 Camerino, Italy
Fax: +39(0737)402297; e-Mail: marino.petrini@unicam.it;
Further Information

Publication History

Received 27 September 2006
Publication Date:
21 December 2006 (online)

Abstract

The electron-withdrawing aptitude displayed by the acyl group makes N-acylamines very attractive substrates in many processes aimed at the preparation of amino derivatives. The remarkable electrophilicity of N-acylimines can be profitably used to overcome reactivity troubles often observed using N-alkylimines and N-arylimines. The presence of a polar acyl moiety on the nitrogen atom is particularly effective in stereoselective reactions were electrostatic interactions play a major role in determining the facial preference for the nucleophilic attack. Utilization of alkoxycarbonyl groups (e.g. Boc or Cbz) as activating N-acyl substituents allows one to obtain the final amino derivative in a protected form that can be readily cleaved under mild conditions. In this review, several synthetic applications of N-acylimines in stereoselective reactions that have appeared in the literature since 1990 are discussed.

1 Introduction

2 Preparation of N-Acylimines

3 Nucleophilic Additions to N-Acylimines

3.1 Reaction with Organometallic Reagents and Related Carbanions

3.1.1 Linear N-Acylimines

3.1.2 Cyclic N-Acylimines

3.2 Reaction with Enolate Anions

3.2.1 Nitroalkanes: The Aza-Henry Reaction

3.2.2 1,3-Dicarbonyls

3.2.3 Carbonyls and Related Derivatives

3.2.4 Carboxylic Acid Derivatives

3.3 Reaction with Aromatic Compounds

3.4 Reaction with Heteronucleophiles

4 Cycloaddition Reactions

5 Conclusion