Stereoselective Koenigs-Knorr Glycosylation Catalyzed by Urea

A stereoselective Koenigs-Knorr glycosylation reaction under the catalysis of urea is described. This method is characterized by urea-mediated hydrogen-bond activation and subsequent glycosylation with glycosyl chlorides or bromides. Excellent yields and high anomeric selectivity can be achieved in most cases. Moreover, the low α-stereoselectivity of glycosylations observed when using perbenzylated glucosyl donors can be greatly improved by the addition of tri-(2,4,6-trimethoxyphenyl)phosphine (TTMPP).