A New Synthesis ofN-Substituted α-Amino Ketones

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Abstract
α-Amino ketones are valuable intermediates in the synthesis of a variety of substances, especially that of heterocyclic compounds, and their preparation and reactions continue to attract attention.1 Often, these compounds are prepared from the corresponding ketones or their α-bromo derivatives, but such syntheses may involve interfering side reactions and consequent difficulties in the isolation of the product.2 We now report a new synthesis of α-amino ketones which is based on a highly selective cleavage of α-lactams with organolithium compounds. This reaction is in sharp contrast to that of α-lactams with alkylmagnesium halides, which is claimed to effect an insertion-type alkylation of the acyl groups,3 although this claim has not been substantiated.4

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