Synthesis of new chiral 2-functionalized-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinoline derivatives via asymmetric hydrogenation of substituted quinolines

The asymmetric hydrogenation of a series of quinolines substituted by a variety of functionalized groups linked to the C2 carbon atom is providing access to optically enriched 2-functionalized 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinolines in the presence of in situ generated catalysts from [Ir(cod)Cl]2, a bisphosphine, and iodine. The enantioselectivity levels were as high as 96% ee.