The synthesis of novel 4-(5'-pynolidinyl)-beta-lactams from imines derived
from 4-formyl-beta-lactams and alpha-amino esters via cascade imine-->azome
thine ylide-->1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reactions is described. These casca
des are endo-specific, exhibit facial stereoselectivity and occur in good t
o excellent yields. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. Ail rights reserved.