Proline-catalysed asymmetric ketol cyclizations: The template mechanism revisited

A modified template mechanism based on modelling studies of energy minimised complexes is presented for the asymmetric proline-catalysed cyclization of triketones 1, 2 and 3 to the 2S,3S-ketols 1a, 2a and 3a respectively. The template model involves a three-point contact as favoured in enzyme– substrate interactions. Our minimisation studies are in agreement with the divergent behaviour of the 6,5-, 6,6- and 6,7-bicyclic systems. They support the high 93.4% ee observed with the 6,5-bicyclic ketol and the lower 73% ee found with the 6,6-bicyclic ketol. The calculations also explain the lack of asymmetric induction with the 6,7-bicyclic system.