Stereoselective Access to Azetidine-Based α-Aminoacids and Applications to Small Peptides Synthesis

Recent progress on four-membered ring building blocks has led us to investigate the formation of non-natural azetidine-based amino acids ( Aze ). A simple organometallic route was developed to access unsaturated carboxylic acids, which were further engaged in metal catalyzed asymmetric reduction. Functionalized Aze derivatives were finally employed in the formation of small peptide chains.