“Aqueous Microwave-Assisted Synthesis of 4,5- or 2,4-Bifunctionalised Cyclopentenones”

Chiral cyclopentenones are important precursors in the asymmetric synthesis of target molecules. In particular, C-2 amino cyclopentenones could be utilised as intermediates towards antitumor natural products.1 On the basis of our previous experience2 we report an environmental friendly protocol for the synthesis in water of bifunctionalised cyclopentenones. The use of water and MW3 give high regioselectivity and good to excellent yields. The reaction can be realized in short time with various nucleophiles.