Pd-Catalyzed Allylation of Imines to Access alpha-CF3-Substituted alpha-Amino Acid Derivatives

Abstract

We herein report a high yielding protocol for the direct alpha-allylation of easily accessible trifluoropyruvate-derived imines using Pd-catalysis. The reaction gives access to a variety of different alpha-allylated-alpha-CF3-amino acids in a straightforward manner, starting from commercially available trifluoropyruvate. We also provide a proof-of-concept for an enantioselective protocol (up to er = 75:25) by using chiral phosphane ligands.