Excess substrate is a spectator ligand in a rhodium-catalyzed asymmetric [2 + 2 + 2] cycloaddition of alkenyl isocyanates with tolanes.

Excess substrate has been identified as an unintended spectator ligand affecting enantioselectivity in the [2 + 2 + 2] cycloaddition of alkenyl isocyanates with tolanes. Replacement of excess substrate with an exogenous additive affords products with consistent and higher ee's. The increase in enantioselectivity is the result of a change in composition of a proposed rhodium(III) intermediate on the catalytic cycle. The net result is a rational probe of a short-lived rhodium(III) intermediate and gives insight that may have applications in many rhodium-catalyzed reactions.