Chiral Aluminum Complex Controls Enantioselective Nickel‐Catalyzed Synthesis of Indenes: C−CN Bond Activation

A chiral aluminum complex controlled, enantioselective nickel‐catalyzed domino reaction of aryl nitriles and alkynes proceeding by C−CN bond activation was developed. The reaction provides various indenes, bearing chiral all‐carbon quaternary centers, under mild reaction conditions in yields of 32 to 91 % and ee values within the 73–98 % range. The reaction mechanism and aspects of stereocontrol were investigated by DFT calculations. Al takes control: A chiral aluminum complex controlled, enantioselective nickel‐catalyzed domino reaction of aryl nitriles and alkynes proceeding by C−CN bond activation was developed. The reaction provides various indenes, bearing chiral all‐carbon quaternary centers, under mild reaction conditions in good yields and with good ee values. The reaction mechanism and aspects of stereocontrol were investigated by DFT calculations.