Asymmetric epoxidation of allylic alcohols is regarded as one of the major tools for introducing chirality into organic molecules. 1 Its wide recognition springs from the discovery by Sharpless and Katsuki of a very efficient process mediated by Ti-tartrate complexes. 2 Another useful methodology, pioneered by Sharpless, 3 is based on V-hydroxamate complexes. Attractive features of V catalysis, 4 in contrast to Ti, include low catalyst loading (1 mol% or less) and high ...
