Development and Application of α‑Heteroatom Ketones in Asymmetric Michael Reaction with β-<i>trans</i>-Nitroalkenes

The successful design and application of a new type of N-phenyl-imidazole-modified α-heteroatom ketones in asymmetric anti-selective Michael reactions with β-trans-nitroalkenes is reported. High yields and enantioselectivities could be obtained, and the corresponding conjugate adducts could be further transformed into related chiral esters and cyclopropane derivatives with excellent enantioselectivities.