Stereoselective conjugate addition reactions to phenylglycinol-derived, unsaturated oxazolopiperidone lactams.

Phenylglycinol-derived, unsaturated oxazolopiperidone lactams are extremely useful building blocks that undergo stereoselective conjugate addition reactions with organocuprates, enolates, and sulfur-stabilized anions, allowing the stereocontrolled introduction of substituents at the piperidine 4-position. The factors governing the exo- or endo-facial selectivity are discussed. The methodology can be used for the preparation of a variety of enantiopure piperidines, including pharmaceuticals, alkaloids precursors, piperidine-fused derivatives, as well as complex piperidine-containing natural products.