Lewis and Brønsted acids activation

This lecture covers the activation of extended π-systems of carbonyls and imines using Lewis and Brønsted acids, focusing on the conjugate addition and cycloaddition reactions. The instructor presents pioneering examples of conjugate Michael additions by List, Corey, and Meggers, highlighting the challenges and solutions for achieving high enantioselectivity. The lecture also discusses recent/classical examples of conjugate Michael additions using radical nucleophiles and trisoxazoline ligands. Furthermore, it explores the Diels-Alder cycloaddition reactions, including Corey's boranes and their applications in asymmetric synthesis. The lecture concludes with insights into catalytic asymmetric reactions in organic chemistry, emphasizing the development of chiral cobalt catalysts for visible-light-induced radical conjugate addition.