Copper-Catalyzed Synthesis of Enantioenriched Tetraarylethanes

Herein we report the asymmetric synthesis of 1,2-dipyridyl-1,2-diarylethanes via an unusual Cu(I)-catalyzed dimerization reaction. Subjection of a variety of enantioenriched substituted 2-pyridyl alcohols to a one-pot protocol generates the desired products in good yields and diastereoselectivities and with ee's up to >99%.