[chiral α-amino ketones] 6, 58%, 90% ee 7, 56%, 92% ee 8, 66%, 91% ee previously accessed using classic asymmetric phase-transfer alkylation chemistry again requiring a number of concession steps (7 steps total). The current method simplifies this route considerably accessing the same structure in only one step. Similarly, structures 59 and 65 (Figure ), intermediates in a medicinal chemistry program for the discovery of anilide inhibitors against the SARS-CoV 3CL protease, were accessed in nine step routes wherein the majority of operations do not form strategic bonds. In contrast, enantioselective decarboxylative acylation furnishes the same structures in a fraction of the steps previously required.