syn-Selective Catalytic Asymmetric Nitro-Mannich Reactions Using a Heterobimetallic Cu—Sm—Schiff Base Complex

syn-Selective catalytic asymmetric nitro-Mannich reactions using a heterobimetallic Cu/Sm/Schiff base complex are described. The present method is complementary to the previously reported methods, and products were obtained in high syn-selectivity (>20:1), yield (99−62%), and enantioselectivity (98−83% ee). Both Cu and Sm metals, aligned suitably in a dinucleating Schiff base ligand, were essential to realize high syn-selectivity.