Enantioselective α- and γ-Alkylation of α,β-Unsaturated Aldehydes Using Dienamine Activation

The enantioselective alkylation of α,β-unsaturated aldehydes with stabilized carbocations as electrophiles via the activation as dienamine intermediates is described. This unique application of dienamine catalysis allows for the first enantioselective γ-alkylation of linear α,β-unsubstituted enals.