Direct catalytic enantioselective Mannich-type reaction of α,α-dithioacetonitriles with imines using chiral bis(imidazoline)-Pd complexes.

The first highly enantioselective reaction of α,α-dithioacetonitriles with imines has been developed. Good yields and enantioselectivity were observed for the reaction of various imines using chiral bis(imidazoline) catalysts. The obtained products can be converted into β-aminonitrile or 1,3-diaminoketone.