Recent advances in asymmetric Strecker reactions

Abstract

The Strecker reaction is one of the most attractive methods for the synthesis of α-amino acids and other bioactive compounds including natural products. The asymmetric Strecker reaction represents a simple and efficient method for the synthesis of optically pure α-amino acid derivatives, nucleic acids, various nitrogen and sulfur containing heterocycles and pharmaceuticals. Over the past several decades, considerable effort has been devoted towards the development of asymmetric Strecker reactions. This review provides an overview of recent asymmetric Strecker reactions, from diastereoselective reactions and catalytic enantioselective reactions including chiral catalytic metal systems and chiral organocatalytic systems. © ARKAT-USA, Inc.