Synthesis of aziridinomitosenes through base-catalyzed conjugate addition

Synthesis of an aziridinomitosene core structure that relies on a facile tertiary-amine base-catalyzed azide conjugate addition is reported. Straightforward derivatization of the conjugate addition product affords the desired mitomycin ring system. Initial catalyst screens have identified peptides that afford the product with modest enantioselectivities.