A stereoselective intramolecular 1,3-dipolar nitrone cycloaddition for the synthesis of substituted chromanes

A stereoselective intramolecular 1,3-dipolar nitrone cycloaddition useful in the synthesis of chromanes is described. The reaction relies on the use of a chiral auxiliary on the nitrone partner. Key to the success of the reaction is the choice of auxiliary and the choice of Lewis acid catalyst. Utilizing an auxiliary with a pendant coordinating group, and Zn(OTf)(2) as the Lewis acid, diastereoselectivities up to 22:1 could be achieved.