Synthesis of beta-lactams from diazoketones and imines: the use of microwave irradiation.

[see reaction]. The transformation of diazoketones derived from alpha-amino acids to ketenes that, in turn, react further with imines to afford beta-lactams, can be realized not only by utilizing photochemical reaction conditions but also under the action of microwave irradiation. Under the latter reaction conditions 4-alkenyl-substituted beta-lactams derived from amino acids, substrates that were not previously accessible, have been prepared. beta-Lactams possessing a trans-substitution pattern at the ring were obtained exclusively.