Highly enantioselective aza-Henry reaction with isatin<i>N</i>-Boc ketimines

Abstract

A highly enantioselective aza-Henry reaction with isatin N-Boc ketimines using a Cu(II)-BOX complex as a catalyst is described. The reaction, which does not require protection of the N1 atom, provides the corresponding nitroamines bearing a quaternary stereocentre with high yields and enantiomeric excesses (up to 99.9%).