Theoretical Investigation of the Enantioselective [4 + 2] Cycloaddition Reaction of o‑Hydroxystyrene and Azlactone

Theoretical studies have been undertaken to rationalize the origin of the enantioselective Diels–Alder reaction (DA) of o-hydroxystyrene and azlactone catalyzed by (a) chiral BINOL-phosphoric acid (CPA) and (b) CPA and chiral guanidine (TBO). The sequence of events leading to increased enantioselectivity under the latter conditions have been studied using density functional theory (DFT) methods. The computational results indicate that both the mono- and co-catalytic processes proceed via stepwise [4 + 2] cycloaddition reactions involving three steps, which are (1) C–C bond formation, (2) C–O bond formation, and (3) the opening of the azlactone ring. This results in the formation of an oxygenous cycle with one chiral center. The origin of greater enantioselectivity under the latter catalytic conditions are discussed in terms of the structural characteristics and energetics of the intermediates and transition states formed on the potential energy surface of the competing reactions.