P. Mattei, G. Moine, Kurt Püntener
Jan 18, 2011
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0
Influential Citations
35
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Journal
Organic Process Research & Development
Abstract
A new synthesis of (S)-3-amino-4-methoxy-butan-1-ol is reported. The synthesis is based on the preparation of the primary, nonprotected enamine of the commercially available β-keto ester methyl 4-methoxy-3-oxo-butanoate and asymmetric catalytic enamine hydrogenation using a Ru-MeOBIPHEP catalyst. Alternatively, the process is performed by asymmetric catalytic reductive amination of the β-keto ester with ammonium acetate and hydrogen using a similar Ru catalyst. Both process versions provided initial ee values of 97−98% which were upgraded to ≥99% by product crystallization. Ester to alcohol conversion was best accomplished by LiBH4 reduction after transitory Boc protection of the amino group.