Lewis acid catalyzed asymmetric [4+2] cycloaddition of cyclobutenones to synthesize α,β-unsaturated δ-lactones.

Here we report an efficient asymmetric [4+2] cycloaddition of β,γ-unsaturated α-ketoesters with cyclobutenones. The corresponding products were obtained in good yields (up to 92%) with excellent enantioselectivities (up to 98% ee) and diastereoselectivities (up to >19/1 dr). Moreover, based on the control experiments and previous reports, a possible catalytic cycle was proposed.