The first asymmetric organocatalytic synthesis of helicenes is reported. A novel SPINOL‐derived phosphoric acid, bearing extended π‐substituents, catalyzes the asymmetric synthesis of helicenes through an enantioselective Fischer indole reaction. A variety of azahelicenes and diazahelicenes could be obtained with good to excellent yields and enantioselectivities.
28 February 2006 in European Journal of Organic Chemistry