A new method for the synthesis of N-protected β-amino-α-keto esters from fluoroalkanesulfonylazides and α-keto esters

In the presence of a secondary amine, treatment of α-keto esters with fluoroalkanesulfonyl azides at room temperature afforded N-sulfonyl protected β-amino-α-keto esters in good to excellent yields. This reaction provided a novel, direct and convenient access to N-sulfonyl protected β-amino-α-keto esters from α-keto esters and fluoroalkanesulfonyl azides under mild conditions. However, the reaction of fluoroalkanesulfonyl azides with β-ketoester enamines afforded two products: N-fluoroalkanesulfonyl amidines and diazoacetate. The reaction mechanism is discussed.