Catalytic Enantioselective Michael Addition of α-Aryl-α-Isocyanoacetates to Vinyl Selenone: Synthesis of α,α-Disubstituted α-Amino Acids and (+)- and (−)-Trigonoliimine A

Be like Mike: The title reaction in the presence of the catalyst 1 afforded Michael adducts in excellent yields and enantioselectivities. The adducts were readily converted into alpha,alpha’-disubstituted alpha-amino acids. The enantioselective total synthesis of both (+)- and (-)-trigonoliimine A was accomplished using one of the Michael adducts derived from this methodology.