Asymmetric Synthesis of 2,3,4-Trisubstituted Functionalised Tetrahydrofurans via an Organocatalytic Michael Addition as Key Step

The organocatalytic Michael addition of various aldehydes to (2E,4E)‐ethyl 5‐nitropenta‐2,4‐dienoate has been achieved under the catalysis of diphenylprolinol trimethylsilyl ether furnishing the products in good to excellent yields (61–94%) and high stereoselectivities (dr up to >98:2, ee=97 to >99%). Starting from these Michael adducts, 2,3,4‐trisubstituted functionalized tetrahydrofurans are available in two steps by reduction of the aldehyde followed by an intramolecular oxa‐Michael addition in good yields (54–76%) and stereoselectivities (dr up to >95:5, ee=97 to >99%).