Organocatalytic asymmetric nitro-michael reactions

The formation of C-C and C-X bonds is a fundamental process in synthesis. In recent years organocatalysis has become a powerful tool to achieve these steps in a highly stereoselective manner and the nitro-Michael reaction was frequently used. From the functionalization of simple aldehydes, ketones or dicarbonyl compounds to the synthesis of privileged heterocyclic structures often found present in naturally occurring bioactive compounds and pharmaceuticals, several developments are being continuously documented. This review is focused on the period Jan 2014-Mar 2015 and it highlights the novel prospects for targetoriented synthesis, including many novel domino and cascade processes initiated by nitro- Michael reactions.