Direct asymmetric aldol reactions catalyzed by (4R)-4-(beta-Naphthalenyl)methoxy-(S)-proline

Abstract

A novel proline derivative, (4R)-4-(beta-Naphthalenyl)methoxy-(S)-proline, was conveniently prepared from the naturally occurring (4S)-hydroxy-(S)-proline; 5 mol % of this compound efficiently catalyzes the asymmetric aldol reactions of various benzaldehydes with acetone in excess of acetone as the solvent, giving the aldol adducts in good yields with ee up to 89.8%.