New data on the effect of steric constraints on the chiral induction in the Orito reaction: Hydrogenation of activated steroid ketones

Hydrogenation of α-ketoesters containing steroid groups at the ester side and at the keto carbonyl function of substrates was investigated the first time on Pt–alumina–cinchona alkaloids chiral catalysts using mild experimental conditions (room temperature, 1 bar hydrogen pressure, modifier concentration 1 mM) in the presence of acetic acid. Catalysts modified by cinchona alkaloids ensured enantioselective hydrogenation with 10–70% ee, depending on the steric structure of the substrate. In the absence of cinchonas racemic hydrogenation takes place, i.e. the chiral centers of the substrates do not participate in chiral induction. Experimental data so far obtained support the assumption that under stereochemical conditions not inhibiting adsorption of the substrate and after optimization of the experimental conditions, the Orito reaction may be rendered suitable for the asymmetric hydrogenation of bulky activated ketones. These results also supply additional evidence for the determinant role of the H-bonded adsorbed intermediate, the 1:1 complex of cinchona alkaloid and substrate in chiral induction under protic conditions.

Graphical abstractAfter optimization of the experimental conditions, the Orito reaction may be rendered suitable for the asymmetric hydrogenation of activated steroid ketones.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide