Enantioselective [2+2] annulation of simple aldehydes with isatin-derived ketimines via oxidative N-heterocyclic carbene catalysis

An asymmetric [2+2] annulation reaction through direct α-carbon functionalization of simple aldehydes via oxidative N-heterocyclic carbene catalysis is disclosed. These in situ generated triazolium enolate intermediates undergo a highly stereoselective Mannich reaction with isatin-derived ketimines followed by intramolecular lactamization to afford enantioenriched spirooxindole β-lactams bearing two vicinal stereogenic centers.