Having optimized the reaction conditions (Table , entry 11 for the stereospecific isomerization, and Table , entry 5 for the reduction), the scope and limitations were investigated (Scheme 2). The effect of different aryl groups at R 1 was evaluated first. Substrates bearing electron-donating or electron-withdrawing groups at the para position of the aryl group reacted smoothly to give the desired products in high yields and with good chirality transfer (6a-6e). The ee of the products (R,R)-6 depends not only on the efficiency of the stereospecific isomerization, but also on the E/Z ratio of the starting materials (4). The bulkier naphthyl derivative gave 6f in good yield with a chirality transfer of 97%. Meta and ortho substitution at R 1 were also well tolerated; the diastereoselectivity was not compromised, and yields and chirality transfer levels were maintained (6g-6i). Replacing the aryl group by an alkyl chain resulted in a dramatic decrease in the yield (6j). When 6k was used as a substrate (R 1 = H), 6k was formed in 60% yield.