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Updated: Jun 18, 2025

A Microwave-Assisted Direct Heteroarylation of Ketones Using Transition Metal Catalysis
Published on: February 16, 2020
N-Heterocyclic Carbene-Catalyzed Asymmetric SN2 Alkylation via Noncovalent Activation
En Li1, Xiaoyun Liao1, Fangfang Guo2
1Pingshan Translational Medicine Center, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen 518118, China.
Abstract:
The field of asymmetric catalysis has been developed by exploring noncovalent interactions, particularly within N-heterocyclic carbene-mediated processes. Despite challenges due to the limited number of compatible electrophiles (predominantly π-acceptors), this study introduces the first asymmetric α-alkylation of 3-aryl oxindoles using Csp3 electrophiles. The innovative protocol integrates diverse oxindoles and alkyl, allyl, and propargyl electrophiles, achieving high yields and enantioselectivities. Preliminary mechanistic explorations support a noncovalent catalytic mechanism, enhancing the tool kit for constructing complex chiral molecules with potential applications.
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