Imine Formation and the Mannich Reaction
Formation of C–N bonds is frequently achieved by condensation
reactions between amines and aldehydes or
ketones. A typical nucleophilic addition is followed by
elimination of water to give an imine or Schiff base
[Figure 2.12(a)]. Of almost equal importance is the reversal
of this process, i.e. the hydrolysis of imines to amines
and aldehydes/ketones [Figure 2.12(b)]. The imine so produced,
or more likely its protonated form the iminium
cation, can then act as an electrophile in a Mannich reaction
[Figure 2.12(c)]. The nucleophile might be provided
by an enolate anion, or in many examples by a suitably
activated centre in an aromatic ring system. The Mannich
reaction is encountered throughout alkaloid biosynthesis,
and in its most general form involves combination of an
amine (primary or secondary), an aldehyde or ketone, and
a nucleophilic carbon. Secondary amines will react with
the carbonyl compound to give an iminium cation (quaternary
Schiff base) directly; thus, the additional protonation
step is not necessary.