N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Catalyzed [4+2] Annulation of Enals via a Double Vinylogous Michael Addition: Asymmetric Synthesis of 3,5‐Diaryl Cyclohexenones

Abstract A strategy for the N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) catalyzed asymmetric synthesis of 3,5‐diaryl substituted cyclohexenones has been developed via oxidative [4+2] annulation of enals and alkenylisoxazoles. It is the first example of using NHC organocatalysis in a double vinylogous Michael type reaction, a challenging but highly desirable topic. This unprecedented protocol affords good yields as well as high to excellent diastereo‐ and enantioselectivities.