Synthesis of chiral hydantoin derivatives by homogeneous Pd-catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation

Abstract

5-Aryl substituted chiral hydantoin derivatives were synthesized via asymmetric hydrogenation of prochiral exocyclic alkenes using a Pd/BINAP catalyst. Moderate to good enantioselectivity were obtained (21–90% ee). A chiral Brönsted acid additive was found to be a key factor to obtain high enantioselectivity.