Redox Transformation of -Sulfinyl Esters for Asymmetric Synthesis of Sulfone-Based Axially Chiral Styrenes

Sulfenate anions are always in situ generated from & beta;-sulfinyl esters in catalytic asymmetric sulfinylation, while the potential oxidative transformation remains underdeveloped. Herein, an unprecedented redox transformation of & beta;-sulfinyl esters has been disclosed to generate sulfinate anions. Based on this strategy, the asymmetric sulfonylation of vinylidene o-quinone methides has been achieved, providing various sulfone-based axially chiral styrenes in excellent enantioselectivities.