Modular Synthesis of Multi-substituted Cyclobutanones Enabled by Oxyallyl Cations

Stereoselective synthesis of multi-substituted cyclobutanes with different substituents is still a daunting challenge in organic synthesis. We report here a practical and facile approach to synthesizing all-trans 2,3,4-trisubstituted cyclobutanones from readily available dichlorocyclobutanones. The substitution reaction proceeds smoothly via oxyallyl cation intermediates under mild basic conditions. Further transformation to the synthesis of 1,2,3,4-tetrasubstituted cyclobutanes was also explored.