Stereoselective [2+2]-Cycloadditions of chiral allenic ketones and alkenes: Applications towards the synthesis of benzocyclobutenes and endiandric acids.

Cyclobutanes are important motifs that have found utility in many contexts. Prior work has demonstrated an enantioselective isomerization/stereoselective [2 + 2] as a means to access bicyclo [4.2.0] octanes. Herein, the utility of this method is demonstrated towards the synthesis of benzocyclobutenes and a key intermediate towards the endiandric acids.