Predicting the R/S absolute configuration in asymmetric bifunctional catalysis (ABC)

A predictive model for assigning the R/S absolute configuration in chiral Lewis base-dependent asymmetric bifunctional catalysis (ABC) has been developed. Chiral Lewis base (LB∗)-dependent ABC abolishes the chiral Lewis acid (LA∗) component as the stereochemical determining factor in asymmetric catalysis. By correlating the constant LB∗ chirality to the facial preference for the LA∗-bound carbonyl group for nucleophile delivery, the R/S absolute configuration of the products can be predicted a priori.