Enolate addition to bicyclobutanes enables expedient access to 2-oxo-bicyclohexane scaffolds

We report the synthesis of 2-oxo-bicyclo[2.1.1]hexanes (2-oxo-BCHs) from bicyclobutanes (BCBs) and readily available enolate precursors. We propose this reaction proceeds via initial enolate addition to the bicyclobutane, followed by an intramolecular acyl substitution by the resulting enolate intermediate. Glycine-derived enolates directly give protected 2-oxo-3-amino-BCH derivatives that can be further functionalized.... Show more