Molybdenum-Catalyzed Asymmetric Allylic Alkylations

Palladium, iridium, and molybdenum compounds are typical catalysts used for asymmetric allylic alkylation reactions. Palladium complexes typically give linear structures, whereas iridium and molybdenum complexes lead to branched analogues. Due to the cost difference of molybdenum to iridium, molybdenum catalysts are emerging as a comparable choice. Described is an asymmetric allylic allylation reaction using a molybdenum carbohydrate based Trost-type ligand.