Asymmetric Tandem 1,5-Hydride Shift/Ring Closure for the Synthesis of Chiral Spirooxindole Tetrahydroquinolines

The direct functionalization of sp(3) C-H bonds through a tandem 1,5-hydride shift/ring closure is described. Various optically active spirooxindole tetrahydroquinoline derivatives bearing contiguous quaternary or tertiary stereogenic carbon centers were readily synthesized. A chiral scandium complex of N,N'-dioxide promoted the reactions in good yields (up to 97%) with excellent diastereoselectivities (>20:1) and enantioselectivities (up to 94% ee). Kinetic isotope effect (KIE) experiments and internal redox reactions of chiral substrates were conducted, and the results provided intriguing information that helped clarify the mechanism of the reaction.