Asymmetric Strecker reaction of γ-keto acids. Facile entry to α-substituted and α,γ-disubstituted glutamic acids

The Strecker reaction of γ-keto acid derived sodium salts with (S)-phenylglycinol followed by treatment of the resultant α-amino nitriles with methanolic HCl and heating at 200 °C give bicyclic lactones and . Hydrolysis and subsequent debenzylation of and their alkylation products furnish α-substituted and α,γ-disubstituted glutamic acids.