Direct Catalytic Asymmetric Aldol Reactions of Aldehydes with Unmodified Ketones

Abstract

Up to 94% ee can be achieved in the title reaction [Eq. (a)], which was previously only possible with enzymes. In this reaction LaLi3 tris(binaphthoxide) (LLB) imitates the function of enzymes by displaying both Lewis acidity and Brønsted basicity.