Asymmetric synthesis of α-branched amines via Rh(III)-catalyzed C-H bond functionalization.

The first asymmetric intermolecular addition of non-acidic C-H bonds to imines is reported. The use of the activating N-perfluorobutanesulfinyl imine substituent is essential for achieving sufficient reactivity and provides outstanding diastereoselectivity (>98:2 dr). Straightforward removal of the sulfinyl group with HCl yields the highly enantiomerically enriched amine hydrochlorides.