Asymmetric Synthesis of α-(Diarylmethyl) Alkyl Amines through Regioselective Lithiation of α-Diarylmethanes and the Diastereoselective Addition to Ellman's Imines.

A highly regio- and diastereoselective lithiation/addition of α-diarylmethanes to N-tert-butanesulfinylimines is reported. This methodology also affords the preparation of enantiomerically pure α-(diarylmethyl) alkyl amines bearing quaternary centers.