Iridium-Catalyzed Enantioselective Allylic Alkylation with Functionalized Organozinc Bromides

Iridium-catalyzed enantioselective allylic alkylation of branched racemic carbonates with functionalized alkylzinc bromide reagents is described. Enabled by a chiral Ir/(P,olefin) complex, the method described allows allylic substitution with various primary and secondary alkyl nucleophiles with excellent regio- and enantioselectivities. The developed reaction was showcased in a concise, asymmetric synthesis of (-)-preclamol.