A new Rh(III) complex containing the TsDPEN ligand and an η6-arene connected through a carbon tether is reported. The asymmetric transfer hydrogenation of a series of ketones catalyzed by this complex using the formic acid/triethylamine system provided the corresponding alcohols with complete conversions and a high level of enantioselectivity.
A new method for the asymmetricsynthesis of threo and erythro β-phenylserines using (+)-ketopinic acid as a chiral auxiliary is reported. The reaction was based on the condensation of benzaldehyde with the metal (Li+, K+ or Zn++, enolates of the chiral imines .