[2+2]-Photocycloaddition of N-Benzylmaleimide to Alkenes As an Approach to Functional 3-Azabicyclo[3.2.0]heptanes.

A one-step synthesis of functionalized 3-azabicyclo[3.2.0]heptanes by [2+2]-photochemical intermolecular cycloaddition of N-benzylmaleimide to alkenes was elaborated. The obtained compounds were easily transformed into the bi- and tricyclic analogues of piperidine, morpholine, piperazine, and GABA, which are advanced building blocks for drug discovery.

Photochemical Synthesis of 2-Azabicyclo[3.2.0]heptanes: Advanced Building Blocks for Drug Discovery. Synthesis of 2,3-Ethanoproline.

Intramolecular photochemical [2 + 2]-cyclization of acetophenone enamides gave 2-azabicyclo[3.2.0]heptanes, advanced building blocks for drug discovery. Synthesis of a conformationally restricted analogue of proline, 2,3-ethanoproline, was performed.

Photochemical Synthesis of 3-Azabicyclo[3.2.0]heptanes: Advanced Building Blocks for Drug Discovery.

We have developed a rapid two-step synthesis of substituted 3-azabicyclo[3.2.0]heptanes which are attractive building blocks for drug discovery. This new method utilizes very common chemicals, benzaldehyde, allylamine, and cinnamic acid, via intramolectular [2+2]-photochemical cyclization.