An efficient route to chiral, non-racemic 3-alkyl-3-arylpyrrolidines. Improved stereoselectivity in alkylation of bicyclic lactams and the effect of leaving groups

Chiral 3-alkyl-3-arylpyrrolidines were prepared from the substituted bicyclic lactams. Stereoselectivity in the alkylation of bicyclic lactams was improved by using an alkyl triflate or tosylate as the electrophile.