Aldol reaction conformational effects

Detailed analysis of the rate and equilibrium constants determined for both phases of intramolecular aldol condensation reactions (13 —>15, 16—>18, and 19—>21) in terns of Marcus theory, has established that the intrinsic barriers for die intramolecular reactions are the same as those determined previously for the intermolecular counterparts.31 Consequently, rate constants for intramolecular aldol reactions are predictable from the energetics of the reactions and the effective molarity can be calculated. An associated discussion of Baldwin s rales suggests that they are a consequence of the need to achieve a conformation from which reaction can take place... 

On the methodological front of these broadly based endeavors, we have exploited pericyclic processes such as the dipolar cycloadditions of nitrile oxides together with the aldol reaction and related constructions as tactical devices for the formation of new carbon-carbon bonds with high levels of stereochemical control Another important focus of these explorations has been upon the development of techniques for the manipulation and refunctionalization of hydropyrans, since this structural subunit is not only common to a variety of natural substances, but it may also be effectively exploited as a conformationally-biased template for the stereoselective construction of various skeletal arrays present in numerous natural products. In this context, we have devised a novel and highly effective strategy for the asymmetric syntheses of oxygenated natural products. The fundamental approach features the intermediacy of the hydro-3-pyranones 12, which may be accessed from the chiral furfuryl carbinols 10 via the hydroxy enediones 11 by well-established oxidative techniques (Scheme 1). A critical element of this overall planll is that the hydro-3-pyranones 12 are admirably endowed with differentiated functionality that is suitable for further elaboration by reaction with selected nucleophiles... 

Analysis of conformational effects on aldol reactions. A. The equilibria and products from Z-enolates. B. The equilibria and products from -enolates. 

We have also studied the solution conformations of CAB-complexed methacrolein and crotonaldehyde by use of NOE measurements (Table 1) [12]. These results are in agreement with the transition-state preference for the s-trans or s-cis conformation of a,/8-enals, on the basis of the enantioselectivity of the aldol and Diels-Alder reactions catalyzed by CAB. Finally, it has been established that the effective shielding of the si face of the CAB-coordinated a, -enal arises from /r-stacking of the 2,6-diisopropoxy-benzene ring and the coordinated aldehyde. 

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