Stereoselective Aldol and Conjugate Addition Reactions Mediated by Proline‐Based Catalysts and Its Analogues: A Concise Review

Abstract

AbstractThe application of amino acids and small peptides as asymmetric organocatalysts in the aldol and conjugate addition reactions is a significant breakthrough in the past decade. The desired stereoselectivity in these reactions can be attained through tunable elements of diversity present in the amino acids/peptides. On this note, the current review highlights the organocatalytic aldol and conjugate addition by proline or its analogous in the form of amide/peptide derivatives. The wide‐ranging works of literature are classified based on the use of single amino acid or peptides as a catalyst. The designing of the aforementioned amide/amino acid/peptide catalyst, including their recent applications, is also detailed. Moreover, the analogous catalysts are also discussed, embedding other hetero‐organic functionalities that mimic the catalytic activity of proline in aldol/conjugate additions.