Microwave assisted hydroaminomethylation of alkenes

Hydroaminomethylation of terminal alkenes can be regioselectively carried out in less than 30 min with secondary amines in EtOH under MW irradiation using (PPh3)3RhCO(H) and Xantphos or Biphephos as ligands. When primary amines were employed, the corresponding enamines were obtained in good yields. Tris-benzyl allylglycine was transformed into different (basic) benzylated α-amino acids. Moreover, the benzyl protection was removed in few minutes under MW irradiation with Pd(OH)2 under H2 atmosphere.