Presents in a logical, readable manner the synthetic utility of amino acids for the generation of chiral agents, intermediates, and final products by means of asymmetric synthesis. In the past 20 years asymmetric synthesis has forged to the forefront of organic chemistry. This book provides extensive schemes and reactions containing over 1900 structures to illustrate the varied assortment of chiral intermediates that can be generated from amino acids and their derivatives. Focuses on the alpha[l.c. Greek letter]-amino acids and second-generation intermediates that can be derived therefrom which are of general interest to organic chemists, in either the industrial or the academic environment. Special attention has been paid to the asymmetric synthesis of key pharmaceutical agents, agrochemicals, and a host of natural products including alkoloids, terpenoids, carbohydrates, and insect pheromones. Includes extensive and up-to-date references.
