Abstract: The present disclosure discusses (i) a compound having a chemical formula according to Formula (I), or its enantiomer; and (ii) a compound that is reactive with a hydride to produce a compound having a chemical formula according to Formula (I), or its enantiomer. Formula (I) is: Formula (I) where R1 and R2 are H, optionally substituted C1-C3 alkyl, or linked together to form an optionally substituted C3 or C4 alkyl group; R3 and R3? are H; R4 and R4? are the same, and are optionally substituted C1-C6 alkyl; and R5 and R5? are the same, and are optionally substituted aryl or heteroaryl. In some examples, R4 and R5 are linked, and R4? and R5? are linked, where both linking groups are the same. The present disclosure also discusses methods of asymmetric reduction of an imine, and methods of forming the catalysts and pre-catalysts.

Abstract: The present disclosure discusses (i) a compound having a chemical formula according to Formula (I), or its enantiomer; and (ii) a compound that is reactive with a hydride to produce a compound having a chemical formula according to Formula (I), or its enantiomer. Formula (I) is: Formula (I) where R1 and R2 are H, optionally substituted C1-C3 alkyl, or linked together to form an optionally substituted C3 or C4 alkyl group; R3 and R3?are H; R4 and R4? are the same, and are optionally substituted C1-C6 alkyl; and R5 and R5? are the same, and are optionally substituted aryl or heteroaryl. In some examples, R4 and R5 are linked, and R4? and R5? are linked, where both linking groups are the same. The present disclosure also discusses methods of asymmetric reduction of an imine, and methods of forming the catalysts and pre-catalysts.