Catalytic enantioselective conjugate additions with α,β-unsaturated sulfones

We describe the development of a highly efficient catalytic asymmetric conjugate addition alpha,beta-unsaturated sulfones. Utilizing practical bifunctional organic catalysts and involving air- and moisture-tolerant conditions, conjugate additions of a wide range of Michael donors to alpha,beta-unsaturated sulfones proceeded in excellent enatioselectivity/diastereoselectivity and high yield. This efficient and operationally simple new catalytic asymmetric reaction should provide a versatile approach for the asymmetric synthesis of chiral sulfones bearing all-carbon quaternary stereocenters. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.