Structure–reactivity relationships of l-proline derived spirolactams and α-methyl prolinamide organocatalysts in the asymmetric Michael addition reaction of aldehydes to nitroolefins

l-Proline derived spirolactams and α-methyl prolinamides act as organocatalysts for the asymmetric conjugate addition of aldehydes to nitroolefins in excellent yields, with good diastereoselectivity and enantioselectivity. Furthermore, low catalyst loadings (5 mol %) and a low aldehyde molar excess (1.5 M equiv) were achieved.