Recent advances in the catalytic asymmetric 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition of azomethine ylides

Catalytic asymmetric 1,3-dipolar cycloadditions of azomethine ylides have turned out to be one of the most efficient methods for the preparation of enantioenriched pyrrolidines. The past decade has witnessed the development of a bunch of well-defined catalytic systems capable of affording excellent diastereo and enantioselectivities. Recently, a great effort has been focused on expanding the scope of the cycloaddition with regard to both reaction partners. In this review, we will discuss important advances that have been reported in this area since 2011. The scope of the catalytic asymmetric 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition of azomethine ylides has been greatly expanded by the incorporation of novel types of dipolarophiles and dipole precursors. This feature article summarizes the recent development in this area.