The (4+3)-cycloaddition reaction: simple allylic cations as dienophiles.

The (4+3)-cycloaddition of allylic cations to dienes is a powerful method for the direct synthesis of seven-membered rings. Recent developments in this area have included new methods for the generation of allylic cations, diastereoselective and catalytic, enantioselective reactions, an increased understanding of the diverse mechanistic possibilities of the reaction and applications to the total synthesis of natural products and their analogues.