Enantioselective selenocyclization via dynamic kinetic resolution of seleniranium ions by hydrogen-bond donor catalysts

Abstract

Highly enantioselective selenocyclization reactions are promoted by the combination of a new chiral squaramide catalyst, a mineral acid, and an achiral Lewis base. Mechanistic studies reveal that the enantioselectivity originates from the dynamic kinetic resolution of seleniranium ions through anion-binding catalysis.