Nickel-catalyzed asymmetric transfer hydrogenation of olefins for the synthesis of α- And β-amino acids

Abstract

The field of asymmetric (transfer) hydrogenation of prochiral olefins has been dominated by noble metal catalysts based on rhodium, ruthenium, and iridium. Herein we report that a simple nickel catalyst is highly active in the transfer hydrogenation using formic acid. Chiral α- and β-amino acid derivatives were obtained in good to excellent enantioselectivity. The key toward success was the use of the strongly donating and sterically demanding bisphosphine Binapine. Nickel and dime for the asymmetric transfer hydrogenation of prochiral olefins to access α- and β-amino acids. Formic acid was used as the hydrogen source.