Isonitrile iron(II) complexes with chiral N2P2 macrocycles in the enantioselective transfer hydrogenation of ketones.

Bis(isonitrile) iron(II) complexes bearing a C2-symmetric N2P2 macrocyclic ligand, which are easily prepared from the corresponding bis(acetonitrile) analogue, catalyze the asymmetric transfer hydrogenation (ATH) of a broad scope of ketones in excellent yields (up to 98%) and with high enantioselectivity (up to 91% ee).