Proline-based amino amide hydrochlorides as ligands for asymmetric transfer hydrogenation of prochiral ketones in water

Chiral amino amide hydrochlorides were synthesized from l-proline and their application to asymmetric transfer hydrogenation of prochiral ketones in aqueous media is described. The ATH reaction could afford excellent conversion rates (up to >99%) and good enantioselectivities (up to 76.9% ee).