Transition metal catalyzed cycloaddition reactions of chiral ketimines with alkenes and carbon monoxide: reaction conditions, substrate variations and stereoselectivity

The three component reaction of chiral diazadienes with carbon monoxide and terminal alkenes produces spiro lactams by a formal [2+2+1] cycloaddition reaction. The constitution of one of the tricyclic products is confirmed by X-ray analysis. The reaction works quantitatively if Ru3(CO)12 is used as the catalyst precursor. Stereochemical aspects of the cycloaddition reaction are particularly addressed.