Modular optimization of enantiopure epoxide-derived P,S-ligands for rhodium-catalyzed hydrogenation of dehydroamino acids

The optimization of P,S-ligands derived from enantiopure (2S,3S)-phenylglycidol for asymmetric rhodium-catalyzed hydrogenation of dehydroamino esters is described. The exceptionally high modular character of the (2S,3S)-phenylglycidol platform is demonstrated by systematic modification of the ether and thioether moieties, the skeletal aryl substituent and the stereo and regiochemistry of the ligands. An experimentally useful method for the monitoring of hydrogenation reactions is also described and used for obtaining relevant data of the catalytic systems studied.