Asymmetric organocatalysis: from a breakthrough methodology to sustainable catalysts and processes

The evolution of modern catalytic methodologies for asymmetric organic synthesis, including transition metal and organocatalysis, is briefly considered. The results of the authors’ research group comprise the development of convenient, efficient, and reusable metal-free amine-containing catalysts (aminocatalysts) for manufacturing enantiomerically enriched organic compounds. The efficiency of the obtained catalysts is demonstrated for asymmetric aldol reactions, Michael reactions, and domino reactions, including green chemistry processes. The applicability of the developed catalysts and processes for the synthesis of natural product analogs and the most active enantiomers of clinically used drugs is demonstrated.