Pd-catalyzed enantioselective cyclopropanation of nitriles with mono substituted allyl carbonates enabled by the bulky N-heterocyclic carbene ligand.

A highly efficient catalyst for Pd-catalyzed cyclopropanation was developed using a bulkier N-heterocyclic carbene ligand, with which the nitriles reacted with mono substituted allyl reagents to afford cyclopropanes in high yields with high cyclopropanation/allylation and enantioselectivities. The reasons for cyclopropanation were investigated and the usefulness of the products was demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]