Direct Catalytic Asymmetric Cyclopropylphosphonation Reactions of N,N-Dialkyl Groups of Aniline Derivatives by Ru(II)-Pheox Complex.

Novel catalysis involving phosphonomethylation of N-methylaniline and asymmetric cyclopropylphosphonation reactions of N,N-diethylaniline derivatives with diazomethylphosphonates are reported. Optically active cyclopropylphosphonate derivatives were directly synthesized from diazomethylphosphonates and N,N-diethylaniline derivatives catalyzed by a Ru(II)-Pheox complex in one step in good yields and high diastereoselectivities (up to trans/ cis = > 99:1<) and enantioselectivities (up to 99% ee). D-labeling mechanistic studies of phosphonomethylation and cyclopropylphosphonation suggested that an enamine or iminium intermediate was generated in the reaction process.