Asymmetric organocatalytic Michael addition of cyclopentane-1,2-dione to alkylidene oxindole

An asymmetric Michael reaction between cyclopentane-1,2-dione and alkylidene oxindole was studied in the presence of a multifunctional squaramide catalyst. Michael adducts were obtained in high enantioselectivities and in moderate diastereoselectivities.