Asymmetric Allylation/Pauson–Khand Reaction: A Simple Entry to Polycyclic Amines. Application to the Synthesis of Aminosteroid Analogues

Asymmetric allylation of o-iodoarylsulfinylimines has been achieved in high diastereoselectivities. The thus-obtained o-iodoarylhomoallylic sulfinamides participate in a subsequent Sonogashira coupling followed by a diastereoselective intramolecular Pauson–Khand reaction. In this way, tricyclic amines showing a unique benzo-fused indenyl backbone were obtained. The methodology has been applied to the synthesis of amino steroid analogues.