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.