Enantioselective Preparation of ω-Functionalized O-Acylated Cyanohydrins

Abstract: A minor enantiomer recycling one-pot process usingω-functionalized prochiral aldehydes as starting materials and two reinforcing catalysts has been reported. The desired aldehyde for these process studies was 5-bromo-1-pentanal. In a two-phase solvent system, enzyme-catalyzed hydrolysis of the minor enantiomer regenerates continuously the prochiral starting material and Lewis acid catalysed addition of acetyl cyanide provides the O-acetylated cyanohydrins. The minor enantiomer recycling process has been studied and improved for 5-bromo-1-pentanal to receive high enantiomeric excess and yield of the expected O-acetylated cyanohydrin.