Generality-Driven Catalyst Development: A Universal Catalyst for Enantioselective Nitroalkene Reduction
Zihang Deng, Melanie A. Padalino, Julius E. L. Jan, Sang-Jun Park, Michael W. Danneman, Jeffrey N. Johnston
Abstract
Cracking the selectivity-generality paradox is among the most pressing challenges in asymmetric catalysis. This obstacle prevents the immediate and successful translation of new methods to diverse small molecules. This is particularly rate-limiting for therapeutic development, where availability and structural diversity are often critical components of successful campaigns. Here we describe the union of generality-driven enantioselective catalysis and the preparation of diverse peptidomimetics. A single new organocatalyst provides high selectivity and substrate generality that is matched only by a combination of metal and organocatalysts. Within organocatalysis, this discovery breaks a 16-year monolithic paradigm, uncovering a powerful new scaffold for enantioselective reduction with behavior that suggests the recognition of a nitroethylene minimal catalaphile.