Asymmetric Synthesis of Cyclobutanones: Synthesis of Cyclobut-G

A simple, efficient, and stereoselective approach has been developed for obtaining chiral cis- and trans-disubstituted cyclobutanones from readily available alkyl- and functionalized alkyl-substituted enol ethers. The usefulness of these cyclobutanones is illustrated by an enantioselective synthesis of cyclobut-G (Lobucavir)

A Diels–Alder-Based Total Synthesis of (−)-Kainic Acid

An efficient synthesis of (−)-kainic acid, through a high-pressure-promoted Diels–Alder cycloaddition of a vinylogous malonate derived from 4-hydroxyproline, is described. The bicyclic adduct could be converted into the natural product with complete stereocontrol

Asymmetric Approach to Hyacinthacines B₁ and B₂

Naturally occurring hyacinthacines B₁ and B₂ have been prepared from a common, easily available, advanced intermediate. The approach features several highly stereoselective transformations: inter alia, a dichloroketene–enol ether [2 + 2] cycloaddition, a Bruylants alkylation, and an amino-nitrile alkylation–reduction