Enantioselective SN1-type reaction via electrochemically generated chiral α-Imino carbocation intermediate

oleh: Qifeng Lin, Yingdong Duan, Yao Li, Ruijun Jian, Kai Yang, Zongbin Jia, Yu Xia, Long Zhang, Sanzhong Luo

Format: Article
Diterbitkan: Nature Portfolio 2024-08-01

Deskripsi

Abstract Electrochemical reactions via carbocation intermediates remain fundamental transformations that build up molecular functionality and complexity in a sustainable manner. Enantioselective control of such processes is a great challenge in a highly ionic electrolyte solution. Here, we report an anodic generation of chiral α-imino carbocation intermediates by enamine catalysis. The chiral carbocation intermediates can be intercepted by a variety of nucleophiles such as alcohols, water and thiols with high stereoselectivity. The key SN1 step proceeds via a tertiary amine-mediated proton shuttle that facilitates facial selection in reacting with carbocation.