Asymmetric Organocatalytic Allylic Substitution of Morita–Baylis–Hillman Carbonates with Allylamines for the Synthesis of 2,5-Dihydropyrroles

The asymmetric allylic substitution reaction of MBH carbonates with allylamines has been developed, which affords N-allyl-β-amino-α-methylene esters in high yields and enantioselectivities. After a subsequent ring-closure metathesis of the products, a series of optically active 2,5-dihydropyrroles could be obtained smoothly in high yields without any loss of enantioselectivity. Finally, a tentative mechanism for rationalization of the reaction has been proposed.