Asymmetric organocatalytic Michael-type reaction of phosphorus ylides to nitroolefins: synthesis of γ-nitro-β-aryl-α-methylene carboxylic esters

We report, for the first time, asymmetric organocatalytic Michael-type addition of stabilized phosphorus ylides to nitroolefins mediated by bisthiourea catalyst. Its subsequent reaction with formaldehyde provides γ-nitro-α-methylene carboxylic esters in moderate to good yields and enantioselectivities (up to 63% ee).