Asymmetric Synthesis of Deoxypropionate Derivatives via Catalytic Hydrogenolysis of Enantioenriched Z-Ketene Heterodimers.

ABSTRACT

A diastereoselective approach to deoxypropionate derivatives through Pd/C-catalyzed hydrogenolysis of enantioenriched ketene heterodimers is described. Catalytic hydrogenolysis of the Z-isomer of ketene heterodimers facilitates access to anti-deoxypropionate derivatives (10 examples with dr 71 to >201). Transfer of chirality from the Z-ketene heterodimer to an acid product was good to excellent in most cases (78-99% ee for 12 examples).