Biomimetic asymmetric Michael addition reactions in water catalyzed by amino-containing β-cyclodextrin derivatives

(S)-2-Aminomethylpyrrolidine-modified β-cyclodextrins were synthesized and used in asymmetric Michael additions of cyclohexanone and 4-nitro-β-nitrostyrene in water at room temperature. Moderate yields and higher enantioselectivity for the syn addition product were obtained.