Hydrogen-bonding ability of Noyori–Ikariya catalysts enables stereoselective access to CF$_3$-substituted syn-1,2-diols via dynamic kinetic resolution

Stereopure CF$_3$-substituted syn-1,2-diols were prepared via the reductive dynamic kinetic resolution of the corresponding racemic α-hydroxyketones in HCO$_2$H/Et$_3$N. (Het)aryl, benzyl, vinyl, and alkyl ketones are tolerated, delivering products with ≥95% ee and ≥87:13 syn/anti. This methodology offers rapid access to stereopure bioactive molecules. Furthermore, DFT calculations for three types of Noyori–Ikariya ruthenium catalysts were performed to show their general ability of directing stereoselectivity via the hydrogen bond acceptor SO$_2$ region and CH/π interactions.