Direct asymmetric aldol reaction catalyzed by nanocrystalline magnesium oxide

Nanomaterials with their three-dimensional structure and defined size and shape are considered to be suitable candidates for proper alignment with prochiral substrates for unidirectional introduction of reacting species to induce an asymmetric centre. The reusable and suitably aligned nanocrystalline magnesium oxide catalyzed direct asymmetric aldol reaction afforded the chiral β-hydroxy carbonyl compounds in good yields and moderate ee's.