14-(4-prolinamidophenyl)-14H-dibenzo[a,j]xanthene as novel organocatalyst for asymmetric aldol reactions in green conditions

Title : 14-(4-prolinamidophenyl)-14H-dibenzo[a,j]xanthene as novel organocatalyst for asymmetric aldol reactions in green conditions

Abstract:

A novel L-prolinamide-xanthene derivative was synthesized from L-proline, 2-naphthol, and 4-nitrobenzaldehyde, and subsequently evaluated as an organocatalyst in asymmetric aldol reactions. The resulting compound, 14-(4-prolinamidophenyl)-14H-dibenzo[a,j]xanthene, exhibited excellent catalytic performance across a broad range of ketones and aldehydes under environmentally friendly conditions, including aqueous media, deep eutectic solvents, and solvent-free mechanochemical ball milling. Under optimized aqueous conditions, the reactions afforded very high yields (up to 99%), excellent enantioselectivity (up to 96% ee), and good diastereoselectivity (up to 93% dr). These results highlight the potential and compatibility of this xanthene-based catalyst with the principles of sustainable organic synthesis.

Biography:

Hajar Benrzeil, 29, is a PhD student in organic chemistry at the Faculty of Sciences, Moulay Ismail University (Morocco), under the supervision of Professor Guenoun Farhat, in collaboration with the National School of Agriculture of Meknes (Prof. Bouchra Tazi) and the Institute of Organic Synthesis, University of Alicante (Prof. Gabriela Guillena). Her research focuses on the design of novel organocatalysts developed through green methods with high performance in water and under solvent-free ball milling. Her current work is under submission for publication in peer-reviewed international journals.