Thiourea-catalyzed asymmetric formal [3+2] cycloaddition of azomethine ylides with nitroolefins

A chiral thiourea catalyst possessing an amine function catalyzes an asymmetric [3+2] cycloaddition of azomethine ylides to nitroolefins to provide highly functionalized pyrrolidines with high diastereo- and enantioselectivities (up to 98:1:1 dr, 92% ee). The reaction proceeds in a stepwise manner consisting of Michael addition and subsequent intramolecular aza-Henry reaction. Both reactions are promoted by the thiourea catalyst, and the reaction rate of the latter step is efficiently enhanced by the addition of 2,2,2-trifluoroethanol.