Catalyst-Controlled Regiodivergent Synthesis of alpha/beta-Dipeptide Derivatives via N-Allylic Alkylation of O-Alkyl Hydroxamates with MBH Carbonates

A controllable and regiodivergent N-allylation reaction involving readily available O-alkyl hydroxamates derived from natural alpha-amino acids has been developed, allowing regiospecific access to alpha/beta-dipeptides containing aunsaturated beta-amino acids moieties in moderate to good yields. The regioselectivity could be conveniently switched by alternation of the catalysts and solvents.