Selective "one-pot" synthesis of functionalized cyclopentenones.

Double addition (1,2-1,4) of vinyl magnesium bromide to squaric acid derivatives allows the preparation of polyoxygenated cyclopentenones (8) in a "one-pot" procedure. The reaction occurs through the intermediate formation of octatetraenes (6). Protonation of this latter intermediate at -78 °C with TFE occurs selectively at the vinyl CH(2) closer to the metallic centers. DFT studies of the cyclization step justify the observed diastereoselectivity.