Described here is a modular strategy for the rapid synthesis of β-functionalized electron-rich naphthalenes, a family of valuable molecules lacking general access previously. Our approach employs an intermolecular benzannulation of...

An ew approachf or the efficient synthesis of eightmembered lactams through formal [6+ +2] cyclization of siloxy alkynes and vinylazetidines has been developed. Evidence from ac hirality transfer experiment suggests that the reaction proceeds via a[3,3]-sigmatropic rearrangement from aketene intermediate.This insight led to the development of alternative conditions and use of acyl chlorides as ketene precursors for the [6+ +2] reaction with vinylazetidines.