Catalytic asymmetric [4+2] annulation initiated by an aza-Rauhut-Currier reaction: facile entry to highly functionalized tetrahydropyridines.

Under control: The first example of chiral amino phosphine catalysts for the title reaction between vinyl ketones and N-sulfonyl-1-aza-1,3-dienes has been developed. Under ambient conditions, this protocol provides straightforward access to densely functionalized, enantioenriched tetrahydropyridines with high levels of sterecontrol in good to excellent yields.