Computational Analysis of Competing Reduction Pathways in the Asymmetric Transfer Hydrogenation of 2-Alkenylquinolines
Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Abstract: Two competing reduction pathways can deliver a single stereochemical outcome. This computational study reveals that asymmetric transfer hydrogenation of 2-alkenylquinolines can begin through nearly isoenergetic 1,4-hydride transfer to either the quinoline ring or the alkenyl side chain. The resulting sequences converge on a common prochiral iminium intermediate, after which a final chiral phosphoric acid-controlled 1,2-hydride transfer establishes the experimentally observed enantioselectivity, providing a rational explanation of how competing reduction sequences ultimately afford the same product and stereochemical outcome.
Source: ChemRxiv
Authors: Adrián López-Francés, Aitor Maestro
Institutions: University of Oxford, Swansea University
Language: English
Subfield: Inorganic Chemistry
Field: Chemistry
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7214934491