The asymmetric synthesis of CF3-containing spiro[pyrrolidin-3,2'-oxindole] through the organocatalytic 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reaction.

ABSTRACT

A new strategy for the construction of optically active 5'-CF3 spiro[pyrrolidin-3,2'-oxindole] was described. A series of unprecedented 1,3-dipoles were obtained by condensation of CF3CH2NH2 with isatins. The 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reactions of these ketimines with enals gave the products bearing four contiguous stereogenic centers in excellent yields, diastereoselectivities and enantioselectivities.