A straightforward metal-free synthesis of anti-β-hydroxy-α-amino acids is described. The organic base-mediated decarboxylative aldolreaction of cheap, readily available α-amidohemimalonates with various aldehydes afforded under very mild conditions anti-β-hydroxy-α-amido esters in high yields and complete diastereoselectivity. Simple one-pot subsequent transformations enabled the corresponding an
The first enantioselective decarboxylative aldol addition with α-amido-substituted malonic acid half oxyesters (MAHOs) is described. The combined use of a newly designed bifunctional sulfonamide catalyst with pentafluorobenzoic acid as an additive afforded the β-hydroxy-α-amino acid derivatives in moderate to high yields and with high enantioselectivities.