A new class of Michael acceptors based on α,β-unsaturated amino acids has been prepared
and applied in asymmetric organocatalysis. With the use of thiourea derivatives of
cinchona alkaloid-derived catalysts, efficient addition of thiols to the dehydroamino
acids occurred with formation of β-thiol functionalized α-amino acids in high yields,
moderate diastereoselectivities and ee values up to 95%.
Key words
organocatalysis - cinchona alkaloids - amino acids - thiols - conjugate addition