Recent developments in the chemistry of γ-, δ- and ε-sultones.

In this review, several efficient synthetic routes to three types of sultones (γ-, δ-, and ε-sultones) and their spiro- and fused systems, in both saturated and unsaturated forms, are discussed. The optimization factors for reaction conditions and the implemented reaction types were properly studied. The reported annulation reactions were conducted under varying conditions, with or without metal catalysts, and using different heating modes (thermal, microwave, or photolysis). The reactivities of some sultones towards various reagents are also reported. The reaction mechanisms of selected examples, as well as the biological potencies of some sultone scaffolds, are also presented.