Modular Synthesis of α,α-Diaryl α-Amino Esters via Bi(V)-Mediated Arylation/S2-Displacement of Kukhtin-Ramirez Intermediates.

We report a concise and modular approach to α,α-diaryl α-amino esters from readily available α-keto esters. This mild, one-pot protocol proceeds via ketone umpolung, with formation of a Kukhtin-Ramirez intermediate preceding sequential electrophilic arylation by Bi(V) and S2 displacement by an amine. The methodology is compatible with a wide range of anilines and primary amines - including derivatives of drugs and proteinogenic amino acids - Bi(V) arylating agents, and α-keto ester substrates.