A Stereoselective α-Hydroxylation of Cyclohexanecarbonitriles

Abstract
The traditional approach to the synthesis of cyanohydrins from carbonyl compounds was augmented by a recent approach involving the α-hydroxylation of nitriles.1 Each synthetic method possesses certain limitations and yet offers distinct advantages in scope.2 Although both methods provide useful syntheses of cyanohydrins of cyclohexanones, it was of interest to contrast the stereoselectivity of the nitrile and ketone approach in cyclohexyl systems.