A new strategy for efficient synthesis of medium and large ring lactones without high dilution or slow addition.

We have developed an efficient method for medium and large ring lactone synthesis by a conceptually different ring-expansion strategy. The design of an unprecedented ring conjunction mode of oxetene, combined with the appropriate choice of a Lewis acid promoter and an additive, constitutes the key components of the new process. Enabled by this new approach, the reaction does not require high dilution or slow addition.