Highly efficient asymmetric synthesis of α,β-epoxy esters via one-pot organocatalytic epoxidation and oxidative esterification.

Highly enantioselective synthesis of α,β-epoxy esters was achieved via one-pot organocatalytic epoxidation and consequent oxidative esterification. Excellent enantioselectivities (up to 99% ee) and good yields were obtained for a variety of α,β-epoxy esters. The method was readily scaled. Furthermore the product was applied towards the synthesis of (-)-clausenamide with excellent enantioselectivities (>99% ee).