Computational investigations of the stereoselectivities of proline-related catalysts for aldol reactions

Computational investigation of the aldol reaction of benzaldehyde with acetone catalyzed by various proline derivatives and 2-azetidine carboxylic acid reveal the origins of stereoselectivities of these reactions. Structural differences between catalysts and transition states were analyzed with density functional theory geometries in order to establish the key factors that will help in the design of new catalysts.

Graphical abstractThe aldol reaction of benzaldehyde with acetone catalyzed by proline and proline-related catalysts was studied using density functional theory. Subtle differences in the structures and conformations of these catalysts influence reaction stereoselectivities.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload high-quality image (78 K)Download as PowerPoint slide