Catalytic enantioselective allylation at the activated benzylic position of prochiral aryl cyano esters: access to quaternary stereogenic centers

Palladium catalyzed asymmetric allylic alkylation of prochiral aryl cyano esters has been carried out in the presence of various chiral ligands. The base and additives have been varied and allowed to produce the allyl derivative presenting a highly functionalized quaternary stereogenic center. The chiral pocket ligands of Trost appears the most appropriate to produce the desired chiral derivative.