Copper-Catalyzed Asymmetric Reductive Coupling of Vinyl <i>N</i> -Heteroarenes with <i>para</i> -Quinone Methides

Chiral 1,1,2-triarylethanes represent highly desirable synthetic targets in medicinal chemistry. Herein, we describe a copper-catalyzed asymmetric reductive coupling strategy, wherein vinyl <i>N</i>-heteroarenes are coupled with <i>para</i>-quinone methides (<i>p</i>-QMs) to afford chiral 1,1,2-triarylethanes containing <i>N</i>-heteroarene moieties in 60-99% yields, with enantioselectivities of up to 94% ee and diastereoselectivities of 2:1 to >20:1 dr. This modular protocol features low-cost catalysts, facilely prepared substrates, and good control of stereoselectivity.