Asymmetric synthesis of alpha-amino carbonyls (aldehydes, ketones and acids) using lithium (R)-N-benzyl-N-alpha-methylbenzylamide

The diastereoselective conjugate addition of lithium (R)-N-benzyl-N-alpha - methylbenzylamide to alpha,beta -unsaturated esters and subsequent enolate hydroxylation, followed by reduction and oxidative cleavage provides a faci le route to N,N-protected alpha -amino aldehydes and ketones. Further manip ulation furnishes alpha -amino acids in high enantiomeric excess.