Copper-Catalyzed Asymmetric Alkylation of Glycine Derivatives

Significance

Reported here is a general and practical method for preparing 4-alkylidenyl glutamic acid derivatives 4. High yields and enantioselectivities can be achieved from a glycinate Schiff base 1 and activated allylic acetates 2, using Cu/P,N-ferrocene as the catalyst. The attempt to construct a quaternary carbon center by using an α-methyl-substituted substrate affords the product in decent yield and enantioselectivity.