Simple camphor derivatives as chiral auxiliaries for asymmetric conjugate addition

The chiral enoates, $\text{4}$, readily available in two simple steps from (+)-camphor, Undergo asymmetric conjugate addition with the Gilman reagent LiBu₂Cu. Chemical yields are high (70–90%) and in the case of the naphthyl-substituted enoate $\text{4e}$ excellent diastereoselectivity (95% $\text{d.e.}$) is observed. 3-Methyl-heptan-l-ol of correspondingly high enantiomeric purity is obtained by reduction of the conjugate adduct with lithium aluminium hydride.