Asymmetric organocatalytic direct aldol reactions of ketones with [alpha]-keto acids and their application to the synthesis of 2-hydroxy-[gamma]-butyrolactones

The article explains the mechanisms involved in the asymmetric organocatalytic direct aldol reactions of ketones with [alpha]-keto acids. The discussed interactions have been found to be extremely useful for the synthesis of 2-hydroxy-[gamma]-butyrolactones.