Asymmetric 1,4-Addition of Diarylphosphine Oxides to α, β-Unsaturated 2-Acyl Imidazoles.

Here we introduce a metal-free, catalytic and enantioselective strategy from α,β-unsaturated 2-acyl imidazoles to the chiral phosphorous 2-acyl imidazoles. Interestingly, this methodology was catalyzed by the classical and commercial oxazaborolidine under mild conditions. This strategy features a wide range of substrates scope with good yields and excellent enantioselectivities.