Bifunctional Thiourea‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Addition of Anthrones to Maleimides

Abstract

Abstract For the first time, the addition of anthrones to maleimides catalyzed by bifunctional thiourea catalysts is reported. The thiourea moiety is able to activate the maleimide and the tertiary amine deprotonates the anthrone, furnishing the final Diels–Alder or Michael adducts in excellent yields and enantioselectivities.