Catalytic Enantioselective Synthesis of 2,3-Dihydrobenzo[<i>b</i>]oxepines via Asymmetric Oxetane Opening by Internal Carbon Nucleophiles

Abstract

An intramolecular C-C formation process based on catalytic asymmetric oxetane opening by carbon nucleophiles has been developed, which provides rapid access to a range of valuable enantioenriched 2,3-dihydrobenzo[<i>b</i>]oxepines. With the combination of Sc(OTf)₃ and a Box ligand, good chemical efficiency and enantioselectivity were achieved under mild conditions. The products are also useful precursors to other valuable structures, such as the bicyclo[3.2.2]nonane derivatives.