Asymmetric catalytic aza-Morita–Baylis–Hillman reaction using chiral bifunctional phosphine amides as catalysts

The asymmetric catalytic aza-Morita–Baylis–Hillman reaction of N-sulfonated imines with α,β-unsaturated ketones has been successfully conducted by using chiral bifunctional phosphine amides as catalysts. A series of new chiral bifunctional phosphine amides were designed, synthesized, and systematically studied for this asymmetric reaction. The corresponding aza-MBH adducts were obtained in good yields (75–99%) and up to very good enantiomeric excesses (51–95% ee) under mild conditions.