[Stereocontrolled synthesis of phosphinyl dipeptide isosteres using an asymmetric center at the phosphorus atom]

Phosphinyl dipeptide isosteres (PDIs) are important compounds for the development of potent and selective inhibitors of various aspartic proteases and Zn metalloproteases. The stereochemistry of PDIs affects their biological activity. PDIs were prepared successfully using the concept of asymmetric induction from the chiral phosphorus atom of the phosphinate moiety to the neighboring carbon atom. This methodology involves diastereoselective α-alkylation and β'-alkylation of P-chiral phosphinate derivatives, prepared through lipase-catalyzed kinetic resolution, which produces Phe-Ala type and Pro-Phe type PDIs. The synthesis of Leu-Pro type PDIs in a protected form was achieved through a cross-coupling reaction of stereodefined α-amino-H-phosphinate with alkenyl triflate, followed by diastereoselective hydrogenation of the alkene moiety.