Multiple Catalysis with Two Chiral Units: An Additional Dimension for Asymmetric Synthesis

This Minireview focuses on asymmetric reactions mediated by two distinct chiral catalysts (chiral multiple catalysis). Initially, this approach appears unconventional, but indeed it allows a fast multidimensional optimization and fine-tuning of the catalytic system required to perform a given transformation. Herein, this emerging concept is presented and its potential applications are highlighted. Divide et Impera: A newly emerging aspect of catalysis that involves the use of two chiral catalysts simultaneously is described (see picture). This Minireview highlights the features of the two-catalyst reactions and the synthetic applications of the methods. Copyright © 2011 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.