Highly enantioselective desymmetrization of meso- and prochiral cyclic ketones via organocatalytic Michael reaction

An efficient and novel organocatalyst has been developed for the asymmetric desymmetrization of meso- and prochiral ketones by direct Michael addition to nitroolefins. This strategy can afford the desymmetrization products with excellent diastereo- (up to >99:1) and enantioselectivity (up to 96%) in great yields (up to 95%).