10.1021/jo0002240
The research focuses on the development of a new chemical transformation for the synthesis of diversely functionalized cyclopropanes using 1,2-dioxines and stabilized phosphorus ylides as key precursors. The study involves a series of mechanistic investigations to understand the complex relationship between 1,2-dioxines, their isomeric γ-hydroxy enones, hemiacetals, and ketoepoxides, and how these can be utilized to construct cyclopropanes. The experiments include the reaction of 1,2-dioxines with various stabilized phosphorus ylides under different conditions, with the aim of elucidating the mechanism behind the formation of cyclopropanes and the influence of ylide basicity/nucleophilicity on the reaction outcomes. Analytical techniques such as NMR spectroscopy, IR spectroscopy, and X-ray crystallography were employed to characterize the reactants, intermediates, and products, as well as to determine the structure and relative stereochemistry of the synthesized cyclopropanes. The research also explores the effects of solvent, additives, and temperature on the reaction rates and product ratios, providing insights into the reaction mechanisms and the factors influencing the cyclopropanation process.