Enantioselective organocatalytic aldol reaction using small organic molecules

Abstract

Enantioselective reactions catalyzed by small organic molecules (asymmetric organocatalysis) are a comparatively new and popular segment in the area of contemporary research in asymmetric synthesis. The great synthetic utility of the aldol reaction for the formation of C–C bonds has geared up for a hard battle for research in this area resulting in a rapid evolution of tremendous highly enantioselective chiral catalysts. This review emphasizes asymmetric direct aldol reactions catalyzed by small enantioenriched organic molecules, particularly those involving enamine catalysis through primary and secondary amines. We have made significant efforts to include several important contributions from different groups in this area.