Chiral 1,3,2-Diazaphospholenes as Catalytic Molecular Hydrides for Enantioselective Conjugate Reductions.

Secondary 1,3,2-diazaphospholenes have a polarized P-H bond and are emerging as molecular hydrides. Herein, a class of chiral, conformationally restricted methoxy-1,3,2-diazaphospholene catalysts is reported. We demonstrate their catalytic potential in asymmetric 1,4-reductions of α,β-unsaturated carbonyl derivatives, including enones, acyl pyrroles, and amides, which proceeded in enantioselectivities of up to 95.5:4.5 e.r.