Organocatalytic asymmetric synthesis of 3(2H)-furanones with adjacent quaternary and tertiary stereocenters

Abstract An efficient stereoselective Michael addition of simple 3(2 H )-furanones to α,β-unsaturated ketones has been described. The protocol provides a facile and efficient access to complex 3(2 H )-furanones containing adjacent quaternary and tertiary stereocenters in high yields (up to 99%) with good diastereoselectivities (up to 86:14) and excellent enantioselectivities (up to 98% ee) under mild conditions.