A new asymmetric organocatalytic nitrocyclopropanation reaction.

Using 5-(pyrrolidin-2-yl)-1H-tetrazole as an organic catalyst, the nitrocyclopropanation of 2-cyclohexen-1-one has been achieved, proceeding in high yield and with good enantioselective control.

Synthesis of substituted 2-cyanoarylboronic esters.

The synthesis of substituted 2-cyanoarylboronic esters is described via lithiation/in situ trapping of the corresponding methoxy-, trifluoromethyl-, fluoro-, chloro-, and bromobenzonitriles. The crude arylboronic esters were obtained in high yields and purities and with good regioselectivities.