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Inhibition of human ornithine aminotransferase interferes with glutamine and proline metabolism in hepatocellular carcinoma, depriving tumors of essential nutrients. A proposed mechanism-based inhibitor containing a bicyclo[3.1.1]heptanol warhead is reported herein. The proposed inactivation mechanism involves a novel α-iminol rearrangement. The synthesis of the proposed inhibitor features an asymmetric intramolecular Mannich reaction, utilizing a chiral sulfinamide. This study presents a novel approach toward the synthesis of functionalized bicyclo[3.1.1]heptanes and highlights an underutilized method to access enantiopure exocyclic amines.

Oxidopyrylium ylides are useful intermediates in synthetic organic chemistry because of their capability of forming structurally complex cycloadducts. They can also self-dimerize via [5 + 3] cycloaddition, which is an oft-reported side reaction that can negatively impact [5 + 2] cycloadduct yields and efficiency. In select instances, these dimers can be synthesized and used as the source of oxidopyrylium ylide, although the generality of this process remains unclear. Thus, how the substitution pattern governs both dimerization and cycloaddition reactions is of fundamental interest to probe factors to regulate them. The following manuscript details our findings that maltol-derived oxidopyrylium ylides (i.e., with ortho methyl substitution relative to oxide) can be trapped prior to dimerization more efficiently than the regioisomeric allomaltol-derived ylide (i.e., with a para methyl substitution relative to oxide). Density functional theory studies provide evidence in support of a sterically (kinetically) controlled mechanism, whereby gauche interactions between appendages of the approaching maltol-derived ylides are privileged by higher barriers for dimerization and thus are readily intercepted by dipolarophiles via [5 + 2] cycloadditions.

The total biosynthesis of (-)-terpestacin was achieved by heterologous expression of four biosynthetic enzyme genes ( tpcA- D) in Aspergillus oryzae. After construction of preterpestacin I by the action of bifunctional terpene synthase (TpcA), two cytochrome P450s (TpcBC) activate inert C-H bond to install three hydroxyl groups on the A-ring in stereo- and regioselective manners. Subsequently, a flavin-dependent oxidase (TpcD) catalyzes oxidation of the vicinal diol moiety to give a α-diketone, which undergoes an enolization to furnish terpestacin. The successful synthesis of structurally elaborated terpestacin showed that a reconstitution approach that harnesses several biosynthetic enzyme genes in A. oryzae could be a promising alternative to the current chemical synthesis of natural terpenoids.

Hexopyranose side chains populate three staggered conformations, whose proportions can be determined from the three sets of ideal limiting 3 J H5,H6R and 3 J H5,H6S coupling constants in combination with the time-averaged experimental coupling constants. Literature values for the limiting coupling constants, obtained by the study of model compounds, the use of the Haasnoot-Altona and related equations, or quantum mechanical computations, can result in computed negative populations of one of the three ideal conformations. Such values arise from errors in the limiting coupling constants and/or from the population of nonideal conformers. We describe the synthesis and analysis of a series of cis- and trans-fused mono-, di-, and trioxabicyclo[4.4.0]octane-like compounds. Correction factors for the application of data from internal models (-CH(OR)-CH(OR)-) to terminal systems (-CH(OR)-CH 2 (OR)) are deduced from comparison of further models, and applied where necessary. Limiting coupling constants so-derived are applied to the side chain conformations of three model hexopyranosides, resulting in calculated conformer populations without negative values. Although, developed primarily for hexopyranose side chains, the limiting coupling constants are suitable, with the correction factors presented, for application to the side chains of higher carbon sugars and to conformation analysis of acyclic diols and their derivatives in a more general sense.

The convergent synthesis of bicyclo[2.2.2]diazaoctane structures using an intermolecular Diels-Alder cycloaddition between a pyrazinone and commercially available fumarate or maleate precursors is reported. High reactivity and stereoselection is observed with both dienophile substrates. Structure validation was achieved by conversion of cycloadducts into known [2.2.2]diazabicyclic compounds or into crystalline derivatives suitable for X-ray analysis. The cycloadduct derived from reaction of pyrazinone and maleic anhydride underwent selective anhydride ring opening and intersected an established precursor in the synthesis of brevianamide B.

The use of a combination of 2,3-dichloro-5,6-dicyano-1,4-benzoquinone (DDQ) and β-pinene permits the removal of 2-naphthylmethyl (Nap) ether protecting groups on highly sensitive substrates. The reaction tolerates both acid and base sensitive protecting groups, and products are afforded in 68-96% yield. The utility of the method is demonstrated by the removal of the Nap protecting groups on highly sensitive 2,6-dideoxy-sugar disaccharides.

A new, effective catalytic system based on Co(acac) 2 has been developed for [6 + 2] cycloaddition of terminal alkynes to 1,3,5,7-cyclooctatetraene to give substituted bicyclo[4.2.2]deca-2,4,7,9-tetraenes in high yields (68-85%). The electrophilic activation of double bonds in the bicyclic products with m-CPBA is an efficient method for the synthesis of substituted bicyclo[4.3.1]deca-2,4,8-triene-7,10-diols, which form the key structural moieties of numerous natural biologically active compounds. The structures of the obtained compounds were reliably proven by modern spectral methods and X-ray diffraction. The mechanism of the discovered rearrangement was studied both using deuterium-labeled bicyclo[4.2.2]deca-2,4,7,9-tetraenes and utilizing quantum chemical calculations. The obtained substituted bicyclo[4.3.1]deca-2,4,8-triene-7,10-diols and their keto derivatives showed high antitumor activity in vitro against Hek293, Jurkat, K562, and A549 tumor cell lines.

In order to gain additional information concerning the active conformation of the N-substituted trans-3,4-dimethyl-4-(3-hydroxyphenyl)piperidine (1) class of opioid receptor antagonists, procedures were developed for the synthesis of structurally rigid N-substituted-6-(3-hydroxyphenyl)3-azabicyclo[3.1.0]hexane and 3-methyl-4-(3-hydroxyphenyl)-4-azabicyclo[4.1.0]heptanes. Evaluation of the conformationally constrained series in a [ 35 S]GTPγS assay showed that structural rigid compounds having the 3-hydroxyphenyl group locked in the piperidine equatorial orientation had potencies equal to or better than similar compounds having more flexible structures similar to 1. The studies of the rigid compounds also suggested that the 3-methyl group present in compound 1 type antagonists may not be necessary for their pure opioid antagonist properties.

α-Hydroxy-γ-pyrone-based oxidopyrylium cycloaddition reactions are useful methods for accessing a highly diverse range of oxabicyclo[3.2.1]octane products. Intermolecular variants of the reaction require the formation of a methyl triflate-based pre-ylide salt that upon treatment with base in the presence of alkenes or alkynes leads to α-methoxyenone-containing bicyclic products. Herein, we describe our discovery that the use of ethanol-stabilized chloroform as solvent leads to the generation of α-ethoxyenone-containing bicyclic byproducts. This three-component process was further optimized by gently heating a mixture of a purified version of the oxidopyrylium dimer in the presence of an alcohol prior to addition of a dipolarophile. Using this convenient procedure, several new oxidopyrylium cycloaddition products can be generated in moderate yields. We also highlight the method in a tandem ring-opening/debenzylation method for the generation of α-hydroxytropolones.

A stereoselective intermolecular Diels-Alder cycloaddition of an intermediate pyrazinone with both achiral and chiral acrylate-derived dienophiles provides rapid access to the bicyclo[2.2.2]diazaoctane core shared among several prenylated indole alkaloids. The product derived from cycloaddition with 2-nitroacrylate required an additional five to six synthetic operations to intercept established precursors to premalbrancheamide and brevianamide B. The chemistry detailed in this manuscript constitutes a formal total synthesis (12 steps each) of these [2.2.2]diazabicyclic natural products from proline methyl ester., Competing Interests: Notes The authors declare no competing financial interest.

The revision of the structure of the sesquiterpene aquatolide from a bicyclo[2.2.0]hexane to a bicyclo[2.1.1]hexane structure using compelling NMR data, X-ray crystallography, and the recent confirmation via full synthesis exemplify that the achievement of "structural correctness" depends on the completeness of the experimental evidence. Archived FIDs and newly acquired aquatolide spectra demonstrate that archiving and rigorous interpretation of 1D (1)H NMR data may enhance the reproducibility of (bio)chemical research and curb the growing trend of structural misassignments. Despite being the most accessible NMR experiment, 1D (1)H spectra encode a wealth of information about bonds and molecular geometry that may be fully mined by (1)H iterative full spin analysis (HiFSA). Fully characterized 1D (1)H spectra are unideterminant for a given structure. The corresponding FIDs may be readily submitted with publications and collected in databases. Proton NMR spectra are indispensable for structural characterization even in conjunction with 2D data. Quantum interaction and linkage tables (QuILTs) are introduced for a more intuitive visualization of 1D J-coupling relationships, NOESY correlations, and heteronuclear experiments. Overall, this study represents a significant contribution to best practices in NMR-based structural analysis and dereplication.

An asymmetric total synthesis of the nootropic alkaloid (-)-huperzine A was completed using a cascade sequence initiated by an intramolecular aza-Prins reaction and terminated by a stereoelectronically guided fragmentation of a cyclobutylcarbinyl cation as the key step in assembling the bicyclo[3.3.1]nonene core of the natural product. Intramolecular [2 + 2]-photocycloaddition of the crotyl ether of (S)-4-hydroxycyclohex-2-enone afforded a bicyclo[4.2.0]octanone containing an embedded tetrahydrofuran in which the cyclohexanone moiety was converted to a triisopropylsilyl enol ether and functionalized as an allylic azide. The derived primary amine was acylated with α-phenylselenylacrylic acid, and the resulting amide was reacted with trimethylaluminum to give a [2 + 2]-cycloadduct, which underwent retroaldol fission to produce a fused α-phenylselenyl δ-lactam. Periodate oxidation of this lactam led directly to an α-pyridone, which was converted to a fused 2-methoxypyridine. Reductive cleavage of the activated "pyridylic" C-O bond in this tetracycle and elaboration of the resultant hydroxy ketone to a diketone was followed by chemoselective conversion of the methyl ketone in this structure to an endo isopropenyl group. Condensation of the remaining ketone with methyl carbamate in the presence of acid initiated the programmed cascade sequence and furnished a known synthetic precursor to huperzine A. Subsequent demethylation of the carbamate and the methoxypyridine, accompanied by in situ decarboxylation of the intermediate carbamic acid, gave (-)-huperzine A.

The marasmane sesquiterpenoid structure can be found in the skeleton of a variety of natural products bearing interesting bioactivity. The unique fused-5,6,3-tricyclic ring structure, in which the rings are cis-fused and the five- and three-membered rings are mutually trans, provides a synthetic challenge for organic chemists. In this work, we took advantage of the photoinduced decarbonylative rearrangement of bicyclo[2.2.2]octenone to develop a new methodology for construction of the highly functionalized fused-5,6,3-tricyclic ring structure in a concise reaction sequence.

Pyrrolidine-2-carboxylate esters substituted in the 3-, 4- or 5-positions were converted to their N'-aryl urea derivatives. Deprotonation at the 2-position to form a potassium enolate led to migration of the N'-aryl substituent to the 2 position of the pyrrolidine ring, followed by cyclization of the resulting urea to give bicyclic α-aryl hydantoin derivatives of substituted prolines. Depending on the substitution pattern of the starting material, high diastereoselectivity was observed in the aryl migration, allowing formation of the products in enantiomerically enriched form, despite the intermediacy of a planar enolate. The hydrolysis of the bicyclic hydantoins under basic conditions gave a range of enantiopure and enantioenriched quaternary α-aryl proline derivatives.

A new class of carbocyclic nucleoside analogues built on a bicyclo[4.1.0]heptane scaffold, a perspective novel pseudosugar pattern, have been conceived as anti-HSV agents on the basis of initial protein-ligand docking studies. The asymmetric synthesis of a series of these compounds incorporating different nucleobases has been efficiently completed starting from 1,4-cyclohexanedione.

The thermal equilibration of the methyl esters of endiandric acids D and E was subject to a computational study. An electrocyclic pathway via an electrocyclic ring opening followed by a ring flip and a subsequent electrocyclization proposed by Nicolaou [ Nicolaou , K. C. ; Chen , J. S. Chem. Soc. Rev. 2009 , 38 , 2993 ], was computationally explored. The free-energy barrier for this electrocyclic route was shown to be very close to the bicyclo[4.2.0]octa-2,4-diene reported by Huisgen [ Huisgen , R. ; Boche , G. ; Dahmen , A. ; Hechtl , W. Tetrahedron Lett. 1968 , 5215 ]. Furthermore, the possibility of a [1,5] sigmatropic alkyl group shift of bicyclo[4.2.0]octa-2,4-diene systems at high temperatures was explored in a combined computational and experimental study. Calculated reaction barriers for an open-shell singlet biradical-mediated stepwise [1,5] sigmatropic alkyl group shift were shown to be comparable with the reaction barriers for the bicyclo[4.1.0]hepta-2,4-diene (norcaradiene) walk rearrangement. However, the stepwise sigmatropic pathway is suggested to only be feasible for appropriately substituted compounds. Experiments conducted on a deuterated analogous diol derivative confirmed the calculated (large) differences in barriers between electrocyclic and sigmatropic pathways.

Despite significant advances in antimalarial chemotherapy over the past 30 years, development of resistance to frontline drugs remains a significant challenge that limits efforts to eradicate the disease. We now report the discovery of a new class of antimalarials, salinipostins A-K, with low nanomolar potencies and high selectivity indices against mammalian cells (salinipostin A: Plasmodium falciparum EC50 50 nM, HEK293T cytotoxicity EC50 > 50 μM). These compounds were isolated from a marine-derived Salinospora sp. bacterium and contain a bicyclic phosphotriester core structure, which is a rare motif among natural products. This scaffold differs significantly from the structures of known antimalarial compounds and represents a new lead structure for the development of therapeutic targets in malaria. Examination of the growth stage specificity of salinipostin A indicates that it exhibits growth stage-specific effects that differ from compounds that inhibit heme polymerization, while resistance selection experiments were unable to identify parasite populations that exhibited significant resistance against this compound class.

In studies related to the synthesis of the bicyclo[3.2.1]octane core of enterocin by an intramolecular meta-photocycloaddition, it was found that the regioselectivity of the reaction depends strongly on the substituent -CH2X in the ortho-position to the tether. Electropositive groups X (X = H, Me, TMS, TES) gave preferentially the linear isomer (regioisomeric ratio = 87/13 to >95/5), whereas electronegative substituents (X = OH, OAc, F) showed a clear preference for the angular isomer (regioisomeric ratio = 75/25 to >95/5). The silylated and fluorinated products were obtained as single isomers in moderate yield.

An array of six pyridyl-substituted fused bicyclic piperidines was prepared as novel cores for medicinal chemistry. For maximum diversity, the size of the fused ring varied from three to six atoms and contained up to two oxygen atoms. The pyridine ring was incorporated to improve physicochemical properties and to challenge the robustness of the chemistry. The presence of the pyridine did interfere with our initial approaches to these molecules, and in several instances, a blocking strategy had to be employed. These new scaffolds possess high sp3 character and may prove useful in multiple medicinal chemistry applications.

A solvent- and catalyst-free synthesis of nitrogen-containing bicyclic derivatives through a three-bond forming process is reported. Starting from dienals and readily available diazenes, the strategy involving the hemiaminal formation/hetero-Diels-Alder reaction affords the bicyclic products in a highly diastereoselective manner. This simple and green procedure has been applied to a selection of substrates, giving rise to 12 examples of nitrogen-containing bicyclic architectures. These products underwent various synthetic transformations. A sequence involving the cleavage of the hydrazine allowed the preparation of a hydantoin motif bearing an aminopropyl side chain, which is a structure found in natural products. A mechanism has also been suggested to explain the observed selectivities.

In continuation of our previous study on the intramolecular reductive coupling of simple homoallylic esters promoted by allylSmBr/HMPA/H2O, which afforded a facile synthesis of 2-(2-hydroxyalkyl)cyclopropanols, here we report the reductive cascade cyclization of but-3-enyl but-3-enoates mediated by allylSmBr/HMPA/CuCl2·2H2O, in which the two C═C bonds were successively coupled to allow the construction of the structurally interesting bridged bicyclic tertiary alcohols. Thus, the 2-(2-hydroxyethyl)bicyclo[2.1.1]hexan-1-ols were prepared in moderate to good yields with excellent diastereoselectivity.

Approaches to the synthesis of the constrained 5-methyluracil nucleoside (S)-cEt-BNA, a key "gapmer" unit in a number of biologically relevant antisense oligonucleotides, are described using 5-methyluridine as starting material. In the shorter synthesis, a nine-step linear sequence afforded a O-protected (S)-cEt-BNA consisting of a [2.2.1]dioxabicycloheptane core in 7% overall yield. A competing reaction in an intramolecular cyclization of a tosylate led to a bicyclic oxetane.

A novel four-component bicyclization strategy has been established, allowing a flexible and practical approach to 37 examples of multicyclic pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridines from low-cost and readily accessible arylglyoxals, pyrazol-5-amines, aromatic amines, 4-hydroxy-6-methyl-2H-pyran-2-one, and cyclohexane-1,3-diones. The polysubstituted cyclopenta[d]pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridines were stereoselectively synthesized through a microwave-assisted special [3+2+1]/[3+2] bicyclization with good control of the spatial configuration of exocyclic double bonds. The novel [3+2+1]/[2+2+1] bicyclization resulted in 17 examples of unreported pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyrrolo[4,3,2-de]quinolones. Reasonable mechanisms for forming two new types of multicyclic pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridines are also proposed.

Trifluoromethanesulfonic acid and other electrophiles promote formation of the adamantanone core from the readily accessible 1,5-dimethyl-3,7-dimethylenebicyclo[3.3.1]nonan-9-one 2. Because adamantyl cation 3 can be trapped by a range of nucleophiles, including aromatic and heteroaromatic rings, alcohol, nitriles, and halides, access to a wide variety of functionality at the newly formed tertiary position is provided.

Ruthenium-catalyzed asymmetric [2 + 2] cycloadditions between chiral acyl camphorsultam-functionalized alkynes and bicyclic alkenes were examined, providing adducts with complete exo stereoselectivity in good overall yield and enantioselectivity (up to 99% and 166:1, respectively), as well as appreciable diastereoselectivity (up to 163:1). The diastereoselectivity showed dependence on the solvent and temperature, as well as on the substitution pattern of the reacting alkyne and bicyclic alkene components. In general, higher diastereoselectivities were observed for reactions conducted in ethereal solvents and at lower temperatures between N-propynoyl camphorsultams and bicyclic alkenes.

A flexible approach to construct sterically congested bicyclo-alkenedione frameworks is reported. Under the action of potassium carbonate, α-sulphonyl cycloalkanones are added to functionalized allenyl esters, leading to a lactone intermediate that is subsequently reduced to initiate an intramolecular aldol cyclization to [3.2.1], [3.3.1], and [4.3.1] bicycles. Oxidation then affords bicyclic diones in good three-step yields. Under exceptionally mild conditions, these bicycles are converted to highly functionalized medium-sized rings through a Grob-type fragmentation.

A straightforward gram-scale synthesis of 1,3,5,7-tetrakis(methylidene)cyclooctane (TMCO) from commercial adamantane-1,3-dicarboxylic acid has been developed. TMCO exhibits high reactivity toward a number of carbenes and epoxidizing reagents, undergoing multiple cyclopropanations, dihalocyclopropanations, or epoxidations of four double bonds to yield polyspirocyclic products. Stereochemical features of polyspirocyclopropanated compounds have been thoroughly examined in experimental (NMR) and theoretical (DFT) studies. Comprehensive stereochemical assignment of TMCO adducts with dihalocarbenes and spiroepoxy products was achieved. The conditions of the formation of 1-methyl-3,7-bis(methylidene)bicyclo[3.3.1]nonane from the adamantane derivative were optimized, and diadducts of this diene with dihalocarbenes were isolated and characterized.

Cycloadditions of 1,3-dipoles and related species to a cis-oxabicyclo[3.3.0]octenone occur on the more sterically crowded concave face. These cycloadditions were studied experimentally by Gais and co-workers in 1998 (Eur. J. Org. Chem. 1998, 257-273) and have now been studied computationally with density functional theory (DFT). Transition states have been computed for various types of (3 + 2) cycloadditions, including diazomethane 1,3-dipolar cycloadditions, a thermally promoted methylenecyclopropane acetal cycloaddition, and a Pd-catalyzed cycloaddition of methylenecyclopropane to an oxabicyclo[3.3.0]octenone. The concave stereoselectivities arise from alkene predistortion that leads to torsional steering in the transition states.

A new synthetic strategy was developed for the asymmetric total synthesis of (+)-didemniserinolipid B in 19 linear steps, featuring a highly efficient and enantioselective construction of 6,8-dioxabicyclo[3.2.1]octane (6,8-DOBCO) framework via a rarely explored Achmatowicz rearrangement/bicycloketalization strategy. In addition, the first total synthesis of the proposed (+)-didemniserinolipid C was accomplished with 41.6% yield in 4 steps from a common advanced intermediate 18, and a possible revised structure of (+)-didemniserinolipid C was proposed. The new convergent synthetic strategy greatly expedites the entry to the didemniserinolipids and their analogues for biological activity evaluation.

A sequential Diels-Alder reaction/rearrangement sequence was developed for the synthesis of diverse functionalized bicyclo[2.2.1]heptanes as novel floral and woody odorants. The outcome of the rearrangement depended on the substitution pattern of the dienes. 2D NMR analysis has established the correct relative configuration of the bicyclo[2.2.1]heptanone, which was originally misassigned. Furthermore, when the initiating DA reaction was catalyzed by a chiral Lewis acid, the bicyclo[2.2.1]heptane derivatives including (+)-herbanone can be obtained in an enantiomeric ratio (er) up to 96.5:3.5.

Medium-sized ynolides were prepared by the Lewis acid-mediated fragmentation of bicyclic γ-silyloxy-β-hydroxy-α-diazolactones in which the Cβ-Cγ bond is the ring fusion bond. Although these lactone fragmentation substrates reacted somewhat less efficiently than their carbocyclic counterparts, the fragmentation provided 11-membered ynolides in up to 84% yield. Unlike prior fragmentations of similar substrates, elevated temperatures were required to obtain optimum yields of the ynolide products. The ynolides reported herein have ring sizes of 10 or 11, which are the smallest reported to date.

Three endo bicyclooctadienol dimers corresponding to kingianins A and H, D, and F and J were obtained by the intermolecular radical cation Diels-Alder (RCDA) reaction. Each isomer was cleanly isolated without the aid of preparative HPLC. Kingianins D, F, H, and J were prepared by way of these intermediates from commercially available materials in 10, 13, 9, and 17 steps, respectively. Kingianin A has already been prepared from one of these compounds. Completion of the synthesis of kingianin H relied on Manchand's one-step, three-carbon homologation.

Yunnaneic acids A-D, isolated from the roots of Salvia yunnanensis , are hexameric (A and B) and trimeric (C and D) assemblies of caffeic acid that feature an array of synthetically challenging and structurally interesting domains. In addition to being caffeic acid oligomers, yunnaneic acids A and B are formally dimeric and heterodimeric adducts of yunnaneic acids C and D. Herein we report the first total syntheses of yunnaneic acids C and D featuring the formation of their bicyclo[2.2.2]octene cores in a single step from simple precursors via an oxidative dearomatization/Diels-Alder cascade that may have biogenetic relevance. In addition, exploitation of the key intermediate resulting from this cascade reaction has enabled rapid access to the structurally related caffeic acid metabolite rufescenolide through an unexpected Lewis acid-mediated reduction. Finally, we report the results of extensive model studies toward forming the dimeric yunnaneic acids A and B. These explorations indicate that the innate reactivities of the monomeric fragments do not favor spontaneous formation of the desired dimeric linkages. Consequently, enzymatic involvement may be required for the biosynthesis of these more complex family members.

A metal-free [3 + 2 + 1]/[2 + 2 + 1] biscyclization strategy has been developed for the stereospecific construction with concomitant derivation of biologically significant indolizin-5(1H)-ones from simple and commercial starting materials. The transformations are notable because they can yield five new σ bonds and six stereocenters including a quaternary carbon center in a single operation.

An efficient way to access functionalized methylenecyclopropanes has been developed by palladacycle-catalyzed cyclopropanation of bicyclic alkenes with propiolates in high yields. The structure of the palladacycle was kept intact in the reaction, shown by (31)P NMR spectrum studies. A rational mechanism has been proposed with a deuterium-labeled experiment. The usefulness of the functionalized methylenecyclopropanes has also been demonstrated.

The cycloisomerization of a bicyclo[4.1.0] substrate into 4,5-dihydrobenzo[b]furan was investigated by using density functional theory (DFT). Comparative studies on four models (model I: with W(CO)5 and NEt3; model II: without NEt3; model III: without W(CO)5; model IV: without W(CO)5 and NEt3) indicate that this reaction is the most likely to proceed under model I to give the product. The ring closure process is greatly associated with the H1 and H2 transfer processes, because in the H1 transfer process, the carbene C3 atom is mainly stabilized by W(CO)5, and in the H2 atom transfer process the C3 atom is mainly stabilized by the O1 atom. The rearrangement of 12 to give 14 is the rate-determining step of this reaction with a free energy barrier of 31.0 kcal/mol. The presence of W(CO)5 can not only promote the H1 transfer and the ring closure (1→6-[W]) but can also be slightly favorable for the isomerization of 6-[W] into 11-[W](6-[W]→11-[W]). NEt3 mainly has an effect in the 6-[W]→11-[W] stage, in which it mainly plays proton-transfer bridge and proton-adsorption roles.

An improved methodology for the preparation of enantiopure oxabicyclo[3.2.1]octadienes via a stereodivergent resolution is reported. High catalyst control proximal to the oxabridged stereocenter produces readily separable diastereomers in high yield (>92%) and with excellent optical purity (>95% ee). This resolution strategy is amenable to large-scale preparations, and the utility of the resolution was further demonstrated in the asymmetric preparation of a key intermediate used in the synthesis of the antibiotic (-)-platensimycin.

A concise preparation of the pheromone secreted by the male Colorado potato beetle [viz. (3S)-1,3-dihydroxy-3,7-dimethyl-6-octen-2-one] was accomplished in four steps starting from 2-fluoronerol or 2-fluorogeraniol. The key step in the synthesis involves a 6-endo epoxide ring-opening with ester participation that simultaneously inverts the 3R-configuration of the (3R)-2,3-epoxy-2-fluoroprenyl acetate intermediate and installs the ketone functionality of the semiochemical. Extensive NMR studies validate the proposed 6-endo mechanism of the featured rearrangement, which under anhydrous conditions resulted in the formation of two bicyclic 1,3-dioxan-5-ones via an unprecedented intramolecular Prins cyclization.

Two α-L-ribo-configured bicyclic nucleic acid modifications, represented by analogues 12 and 13, which are epimeric at C3' and C5' have been synthesized using a carbohydrate-based approach to build the bicyclic core structure. An intramolecular L-proline-mediated aldol reaction was employed to generate the cis-configured ring junction of analogue 12 and represents a rare application of this venerable organocatalytic reaction to a carbohydrate system. In the case of analogue 13, where a trans-ring junction was desired, an intermolecular diastereoselective Grignard reaction followed by ring-closing metathesis was used. In order to set the desired stereochemistry at the C5' positions of both nucleoside targets, a study of diastereoselective Lewis acid mediated allylation reactions on a common bicyclic aldehyde precursor was carried out. Analogue 12 was incorporated in oligonucleotide sequences, and thermal denaturation experiments indicate that it is destabilizing when paired with complementary DNA and RNA. However, this construct shows a significant improvement in nuclease stability relative to a DNA oligonucleotide.

The diastereoselectivity of the alkylation of bicyclic malonates has been studied experimentally and computationally. In accordance with previous observations during a total synthesis of sorbicillactone A, alkylations involving methyl iodide proceed from the concave (endo) face of the bicyclo[4.3.0]nonene ring system. In contrast, carbon-based electrophiles larger than methyl iodide approach from the convex (exo) face. Computational studies using M06-2X and B3LYP methods have revealed that the observed stereoselectivity is explained by subtle energetic differences between a staggered transition state with less torsional strain and unfavorable steric interactions with the cyclohexenone ring. Using this model as a guide, hydrogenation of the C-C double bond was used to alter the steric environment of the substrate. As expected, this led to a reversal in the diastereoselectivity during the alkylation with methyl iodide.

In this work, we report on a new intramolecular para cycloaddition of arenes with allenes, yielding attractive rigid scaffolds bearing several reactive functionalities to build in further diversity. Bicyclo[2.2.2]octadiene-type products and benzoxepine acetals are formed in this reaction, in ratios and yields depending on the substitution pattern on the aromatic ring, the nature of the chromophore, and the tether. This unprecedented reaction has remarkable features that distinguish it from many other photochemical transformations: it is particularly robust with respect to substituents, it can be scaled up without a notable loss of efficiency, and it can lead to structures with a high degree of complexity in low to good yields. All photochemical precursors could be synthesized readily in three steps. We confirmed the compatibility of the nitrogen atom in the photocycloaddition step, which gives access to a bicyclo[2.2.2]octadiene scaffold with two points that allow further diversification. This reaction was scaled up to multigram quantities without erosion of the typically high yields in photocycloadducts. Sequential deprotection of the N- or C-terminus of bicyclic amino acids gave access to two conformationally constrained unnatural amino acids with different dispositions of the two anchor points.

A series of fused-bicyclic acetals containing a disiloxane ring was investigated to evaluate the source of selectivity in silyl-protected 2-deoxyribose systems. The disiloxane ring unexpectedly enables the diaxial conformer of the cation to be stabilized by an electronegative atom at C-3. This low energy conformer subsequently undergoes stereoelectronically controlled nucleophilic addition to give substituted tetrahydrofurans with high diastereoselectivity.

Gold(I) catalysts effectively promote the Cope rearrangement of acyclic 1,5-dienes bearing a terminal cyclopropylidene. When this methodology is applied to cyclic substrates an unexpected transformation occurs, resulting in the formation of a tricyclic compound incorporating a bicyclo[4.2.0]oct-1-ene core, a portion of which is found in a number of natural products. Density functional theory calculations (M06 and M06-2X) reveal insight into the mechanism and thermodynamics of this unique transformation.

A new route for the construction of 2-aminoimidazolidines including analogues of the α2 adrenergic agonist drug clonidine is elaborated. The key step is an intramolecular microwave-assisted Staudinger/aza-Wittig cyclization of an in situ generated urea intermediate (formed by the reaction of β-amino azide and isocyanate) upon treatment with Bu3P or polymer-supported phosphine reagent, allowing the introduction of various substituents at the N1 and the 2-amino function. Furthermore, a useful one-pot Staudinger/aza-Wittig/Buchwald-Hartwig protocol leading to bicyclic guanidines has been elaborated.

A transfer of chirality in an intramolecular Rh(I)-catalyzed allenic Pauson-Khand reaction (APKR) to access tetrahydroazulenones, tetrahydrocyclopenta[c]azepinones and dihydrocyclopenta[c]oxepinones enantioselectively (22-99% ee) is described. The substitution pattern of the allene affected the transfer of chiral information. Complete transfer of chirality was obtained for all trisubstituted allenes, but loss of chiral information was observed for disubstituted allenes. This work constitutes the first demonstration of a transfer of chiral information from an allene to the 5-position of a cyclopentenone using a cyclocarbonylation reaction. The absolute configuration of the corresponding cyclocarbonylation product was also established, something that is rarely done.

A triple cascade was developed using a simple copper catalyst to trans-selectively access bicyclic isoxazolidines in a one-pot synthesis. This strategy features the in situ generation of nitrones and subsequent trapping by [3 + 2] cycloaddition. In this method, copper serves three catalytic functions: as a Lewis acid for the ene reaction, as an organometallic for aerobic oxidation, and as a Lewis acid for an endo-selective [3 + 2] cycloaddition. The successful merging of aerobic oxidation and Lewis acid catalysis demonstrated efficient cascade synergy.

A simple and effective method for the synthesis of 7-oxabicyclo[2.2.1]heptanes and 8-oxabicyclo[3.2.1]octanes from acetonyl C-glycoside substrates is described, which involves an intramolecular cyclization reaction through a nucleophilic substitution at C-5 or C-6 of C-glycosides by a 2'-enamine intermediate formed in the presence of pyrrolidine. Because anomeric epimerization occurs under these conditions, C-glycoside substrates with either anomeric configuration were converted to the same product(s) in same stereoselectivity and similar chemical yield.

An efficient and highly stereoselective approach toward the phomoidride family of natural products is described. The carbocyclic core structure was assembled using a tandem phenolic oxidation/Diels-Alder cycloaddition and a tandem 5-exo-trig/5-exo-trig radical cyclization to deliver an isotwistane intermediate that, upon a late-stage xanthate-initiated Grob fragmentation, furnishes the requisite bicyclo[4.3.1]decene.

We report an unusual strain-releasing reaction of 1-mesyloxy-8,7-dimethylbicyclo[2.2.1]heptane (3) by a base-promoted substitution at the chiral C3 followed by spontaneous concerted ring opening involving the most strained C2-C3-C4 bonds (with bond angle 94°) and the C2 bridgehead leading to anti-endo elimination of the C1-mesyloxy group by the conjugate base of adenine or thymine to give two diastereomeric C3'(S) and C3'(R) derivatives of 1-thyminyl and 9-adeninyl cyclohexene: 3 → T-4a + T-4b and 3 → A-5a + A-5b. These products have been unambiguously characterized by detailed 1D and 2D NMR (J-coupling constants and nOe analysis), mass, and UV spectroscopy. Evidence has been presented suggesting that the origin of these diastereomeric C3'(S) and C3'(R) derivatives of 1-thyminyl and 9-adeninyl cyclohexene from 3 is most probably a rearrangement mechanism of a trigonal bipyramidal intermediate formed in the S(N)2 displacement-ring-opening reaction.

An efficient method for the synthesis of novel CF(3)-substituted tetrahydro-1,7-naphthyridines including cyclic α-amino acid derivatives has been developed. The method is based on unusual cyclobutene ring-opening of bicyclo[4.2.0]octa-1,6-dienes with pyrrolidine to afford the corresponding 1,5-diketones followed by their heterocyclization. A convenient one-pot procedure has been also elaborated starting from readily available trifluoromethylated 1,6-allenynes.