Recent Advances on the α-Functionalization and Ring Transformations of Cycloheptane-based β-ketoesters

Abstract

This review investigates the reactivity of cycloheptane-based β-ketoesters in producing α-functionalized derivatives. Cyclic β-ketoesters are a versatile chemical reagent that can react with suitable electrophiles to produce a variety of α-functionalized derivatives with excellent synthetic potential and promising biological properties. This review covers all reports on α-functionalization of cycloheptane-based β-ketoesters, including those demonstrating enantioselective synthesis using appropriate asymmetric catalysts. The review is divided into sections based on the α-center reaction. We also reviewed all available papers on the ring transformation of cycloheptane-based β-ketoesters, including their ring-opening and ring-expansion reactions. The mechanistic postulates of some complex procedures are highlighted.