Catalytic asymmetric construction of planarly and centrally chiral [2.2]paracyclophanes by combining photochemical and cobalt-catalyzed desymmetrization†

A direct single-step catalytic asymmetric synthesis of [2.2]paracyclophanes (PCPs) bearing both planar and central chirality is reported via photochemical cobalt-catalyzed desymmetrization. This reaction proceeds efficiently under mild conditions and exhibits broad functional group tolerance with high stereoselectivities, thus providing a platform for the synthesis of valuable multi-chiral PCPs.