Synthesis of chiral γ-lactones via a RuPHOX-Ru catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation of aroylacrylic acids

Abstract

An asymmetric hydrogenation of aroylacrylic acids catalyzed by RuPHOX-Ru catalyst has been developed, affording the corresponding chiral γ-lactones in high yields and with up to 93% ee. The methodology has the advantage of utilizing easily accessible substrates and has therefore expand the scope of the resulting chiral γ-lactones. Furthermore, high catalytic efficiency was achieved in that the reduction of both the CC and CO double bonds was achieved in one step. The current work provides an alternative and convenient pathway for the synthesis of a wide range of chiral γ-lactones.