Simple primary beta-amino alcohols as organocatalysts for the asymmetric Michael addition of beta-keto esters to nitroalkenes

Simple primary beta-amino alcohols act as an efficient organocatalysts in the asymmetric Michael addition of beta-keto esters with nitroalkenes affording highly pure chiral Michael adducts. Also, both enantiomers of the adducts were obtained, depending on the specific catalyst used and reaction temperature.