Abstract: A catalytic asymmetric reduction process, which, by hydrogenating trisubstituted olefins, yields a corresponding organic compound having a high level of enantiomeric purity is disclosed. The process is also effective for the catalytic asymmetric reduction of certain enamines and related compounds to yield a corresponding amine or related compound, respectively, having a high level of enantiomeric purity. The reduction process utilizes a chiral metal catalyst that includes a metal or metal complex that is selected from groups 3, 4, 5, or 6, lanthanides and actinides. Moreover, the process uses hydrogen as the stoichiometric reducing agent and may be carried out at pressures ranging from about 0.5 to 200 atmospheres. The reaction can also be carried out using an acidic compound as a rate enhancing additive.

Abstract: A catalytic asymmetric reduction process, which, by hydrogenating trisubstituted olefins, yields a corresponding organic compound having a high level of enantiomeric purity is disclosed. The reduction process utilizes a chiral metal catalyst that includes a metal or metal complex that is selected from groups 3, 4, 5, or 6, lanthanides and actinides. Moreover, the process uses hydrogen as the stoichiometric reducing agent and may be carried out at pressures ranging from about 1 to 200 atmospheres.