Preparation of new bicyclo[2.1.1]hexane compact modules: an opening towards novel sp3-rich chemical space

Among the valuable saturated bicyclic structures incorporated in newly developed bio-active compounds, bicyclo[2.1.1]hexanes are playing an increasingly important role, while being still underexplored from a synthetic accessibility point of view. Here, we disclose an efficient and modular approach toward new 1,2-disubstituted bicyclo[2.1.1]hexane modules. Our strategy is based on the use of photochemistry to access new building blocks via [2 + 2] cycloaddition. The system can readily be derivatized with numerous transformations, opening the gate to sp(3)-rich new chemical space.

Automated summary

The study reveals an efficient method to synthesize new 1,2-disubstituted bicyclo[2.1.1]hexane modules and enables derivatization through various transformations, opening up new chemical space.