Asymmetric hydrogenation of protected allylic amines.

A general method for the enantioselective hydrogenation of protected allylic amine derivatives is described. This procedure relies on the generation of a cationic ruthenium complex with the axially chiral ligand (-)-TMBTP. The utility is highlighted by the highly enantioselective hydrogenation of a diene substrate that can then be elaborated to prepare Telcagepant, a compound currently in Phase III clinical trials. The scope of the hydrogenation reaction was studied, and a variety of substituted allylic amine derivatives could be hydrogenated with enantiomeric ratios of 92:8 or higher.