Synthetic Applications of gamma-Hydroxybutenolides

gamma-Hydroxybutenolides are readily available reagents that are useful starting materials for the synthesis of simple and complex compounds. This review will discuss the role tautomerism plays in the reactivity profile of gamma-hydroxybutenolides, the major modes of reactivity of gamma-hydroxybutenolides, and the application of this methodology for the synthesis of biologically important molecules.