Asymmetric Synthesis of Chiral Heterocyclic Amino Acids via the Alkylation of the Ni(II) Complex of Glycine and Alkyl Halides

An investigation into the reactivity profile of alkyl halides has led to the development of a new method for the asymmetric synthesis of chiral heterocyclic amino acids. This protocol involves the asymmetric alkylation of the Ni­(II) complex of glycine to form an intermediate, which then decomposes to form a series of valuable chiral amino acids in high yields and with excellent diastereoselectivity. The chiral amino acids underwent a smooth intramolecular cyclization process to afford the valuable chiral heterocyclic amino acids in high yields and enantioselectivities. This result paves the way for the development of a new synthetic method for chiral heterocyclic amino acids.