Asymmetric Tandem 1,5‐Hydride Shift/Ring Closure for the Synthesis of Chiral Spirooxindole Tetrahydroquinolines

The direct functionalization of sp³ C?H bonds through a tandem 1,5‐hydride shift/ring closure is described. Various optically active spirooxindole tetrahydroquinoline derivatives bearing contiguous quaternary or tertiary stereogenic carbon centers were readily synthesized. A chiral scandium complex of N,N′‐dioxide promoted the reactions in good yields (up to 97 %) with excellent diastereoselectivities (>20:1) and enantioselectivities (up to 94 % ee). Kinetic isotope effect (KIE) experiments and internal redox reactions of chiral substrates were conducted, and the results provided intriguing information that helped clarify the mechanism of the reaction.