Nd/Na-Catalyzed Anti-Selective Nitroaldol Reaction

Significance

A catalytic asymmetric anti-selective nitroaldol reaction has been developed using a Nd/Na/amide heterobimetallic catalyst. The yields, diastereoselectivities, and enantioselectivities are highest with aromatic aldehydes with an ortho-alkyl substituent. The products are useful anti-1,2-nitro alkanols, which can be rapidly converted into synthetically useful anti-1,2-amino alcohols.