Catalytic asymmetric addition of arylboronic acids to isatins using C ₂-symmetric cationic N -heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs) Pd²⁺ diaqua complexes as catalysts

Chemical equations presented. A catalytic asymmetric addition of arylboronic acids to isatins has been achieved by using chiral cationic C ₂-symmetric N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) Pd²⁺ diaqua complexes as the catalysts. The reaction can be performed under convenient conditions to give the corresponding adducts in good to high yields (79-94%) and moderate to excellent enantioselectivities (up to 94% ee) in the presence of LiOAr as the promoter which was generated in situ.