Highly Efficient Dynamic Kinetic Resolution of Azlactones by Urea‐Based Bifunctional Organocatalysts

Abstract

Novel tasks for a venerable molecule: Bifunctional organocatalysts of the type shown, with a quasi Lewis acidic urea or thiourea unit and a Brønsted basic amine functionality, effect the dynamic kinetic resolution of azlactones with high enantioselectivity. N-Benzoyl amino acid esters were obtained with up to 91 % ee in high yields from racemic azlactones.