The Diels-Alder reaction represents a promising tool for use in
asymmetric synthesis. The reaction involves a rigid transition state
that facilitates the formation of one diastereomeric transition state
and is reversible. This satisfies two necessary criteria for
asymmetric synthesis.
The Diels-Alder reactions of 1,l-dialkylspiro[2.4]-4,6- heptadienes
with maleic anhydride and p-benzoquinone...