Asymmetric Radical Coupling to Form β2,2,3-Amino Acid Esters by Synergistic Chiral Phosphoric Acid and Photocatalysis
Zi-Wei He1, Bao-Ru Yuan1, Xiao-Ye Yu1
1Engineering Research Center of Photoenergy Utilization for Pollution Control and Carbon Reduction, College of Chemistry, Central China Normal University, 152 Luoyu Road, Wuhan, Hubei, 430079, China.
Abstract:
β-Amino acids are essential building blocks in bioactive molecules, offering unique properties and potential in peptide and drug synthesis. Among them, β2,2,3-amino acids-characterized by a contiguous quaternary and tertiary stereocenter-represent a structurally unique subclass with promising biological potential. However, their broader application has been hampered by the scarcity of general and efficient synthetic methods. To address these challenges, we have developed a visible-light-driven radical-radical coupling strategy enabled by chiral phosphoric acid (CPA) catalysis. In this synergistic dual catalytic system, β-keto esters are activated by CPA and undergo single-electron oxidation to generate tertiary carbon radicals, while redox-active NHPI esters derived from α-amino acids are reduced via SET to form α-amino alkyl radicals. Under the chiral environment provided by CPA, these radicals engage in highly selective cross-coupling to afford β2,2,3-amino esters in good yields with excellent diastereo- and enantioselectivity. This strategy provides a mild, modular approach for the stereo-controlled assembly of structurally complex β2,2,3-amino esters, overcoming long-standing limitations in substrate scope and reaction efficiency. Beyond its synthetic utility, this method offers new opportunities for expanding the chemical space of β-amino acid derivatives and holds promise for advancing medicinal chemistry and peptide-based drug discovery.
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