Asymmetric, catalytic synthesis of alpha-chiral amines using a novel bis(phosphine) monoxide chiral ligand.

We have shown that Me-DuPHOS monoxide (BozPHOS) is a very effective ligand in the copper-catalyzed addition of dialkylzinc to N-phosphinoylimines providing access to alpha-chiral amines. The new ligand is particularly effective for the addition of the lesser reactive dimethylzinc. The major advantages of this process are high yields, broad substrate scope, and high enantioselectivities with low catalyst loading (3 mol %).