Nitroalkenes have proven to be extremely versatile 4pi-components in h
eterodiene [4+2]-cycloadditions. Our efforts in this area have been in
tensively methodological with focus on the reaction scope, mechanism,
stereoselectivity and transformations of the cycloadducts. The three m
odes of tandem inter [4+2]/ intra [3+2] cycloaddition, fused, spiro an
d bridged have been documented. An efficient and highly selective synt
hesis of (-)-hastanecine has been completed.