Efficient synthesis of methylenetetrahydrofurans and methylenepyrrolidines by formal [3+2] cycloadditions of propargyl substrates

Recent developments concerning the synthesis of methylenetetrahydrofurans and methylenepyrrolidines by one-pot formal [3+2] cycloadditions involving propargylic (and allylic) alcohols and amines with electrophilic alkenes are described. The synthetic methods provide powerful tools to prepare highly functionalized oxygen- and nitrogen -containing five-membered ring systems. The reactions can be effectively promoted by base, base/transition metals, and Lewis acids, depending on the substrates.