Diastereoselective synthesis of cyclic 1,3-aminoalcohols bearing CF3(CCl3)-groups

An aldol-type reaction of cyclic imines and cyclic lactims with carbonyl compounds activated by electron withdrawing trifluoromethyl or trichloromethyl groups proceeded without any catalyst under mild condition. β-Hydroxymethyl substituted cyclic imines or imidates are formed as a result of the reaction. The reduction of the prepared imines leads stereoselectively to the cyclic 1,3-aminoalcohols. Application of methyl trifluoropyruvate in this transformation opens an opportunity for the synthesis of γ-aminoacids derivatives which contain pyrrolidine moiety.