Desymmetrisation of meso-diones promoted by a highly recyclable polymer-supported chiral phosphoric acid catalyst

A polystyrene-supported BINOL-derived chiral phosphoric acid has been applied to the desymmetrisation of meso-diones to produce enantioenriched cyclohexenones. The catalytic resin has proven highly active and robust, giving rise to Hajos–Parrish or Wieland–Miescher type products in good yields and enantioselectivities, while allowing for extended recycling.