Asymmetric Synthesis of N-Fmoc-(S)-7-aza-tryptophan via Alkylation of Chiral Nucleophilic Glycine Equivalent

Abstract

Ni(II)-complexes, derived from glycine Schiff bases with chiral tridentate ligands, have been used as powerful tools for the synthesis of structurally diverse tailor-made amino acids. In this manuscript, asymmetric alkylation reaction between chiral nucleophilic glycine derived Ni-complex and 3-(chloromethyl)-1H-pyrrolo[2,3-b]pyridine has been developed under convenient conditions, which affords the corresponding alkylated Ni-complex in 74 % yield and excellent diastereoselectivity (only one isomer). This reaction features convenient conditions and completely controlled diastereoselectivity, which provides a highly valuable approach for asymmetric synthesis of 7-aza-tryptophan.