Direct asymmetric Mannich reaction of phthalides: facile access to chiral substituted isoquinolines and isoquinolinones.

The first Mannich reaction employing phthalides using a quinidine-based multifunctional catalyst has been developed. The reported method led to the synthesis of 3,3-disubstituted phthalide derivatives in excellent yields, with good diastereo- and enantioselectivities. Convenient synthesis of chiral isoquinolinones and isoquinolines has also been demonstrated.