Synthesis of enantiopure β2-homoalanine derivatives via rhodium catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation

The stereoselective synthesis of chiral β2-homoalanine derivatives with 99% ee by the Rh-catalyzed enantioselective hydrogenation of prochiral 2-aminomethyl acrylates is described. The subsequent transformation to chiral 3-amino-2-methylpropanols is also demonstrated.