Ple-catalyzed resolution of α-substituted β-ketoesters application to the synthesis of (+)-nitraniine and (−)-Isonitramine

Substituted β-Ketoesters can be prepared in enantiomerically pure form by pig liver esterase catalyzed hydrolysis of their racemic precursors. With the asymmetric carbon atom possessing a quaternary centre, (+)-Nitramine and (−)-Isonitramine have been synthesized.