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The first efficient and general method for the generation of sulfinate anions by oxidation of the corresponding thiolates is described. The oxidizing agent employed is the classical 2-(phenylsulfonyl)-3-phenyloxaziridine, commonly known as the Davis reagent. Subsequent S-alkylation of the sulfinates under phase-transfer catalysis affords sulfones 6 in 71−91% isolated yields (10 examples).

[reaction: see text] Efficient 1,4-asymmetric induction with an enantiopure aminoalkyl group as the chiral auxiliary has been achieved in the first example of diastereoselective alkylation (up to 98:2) of a sulfenate anion, readily prepared by oxidation of the corresponding thiolate. The stereochemistry of the sulfoxide produced is the opposite of that obtained by the conventional route based on oxidation of the sulfide precursor.