Stereoselective dimerization of 3-arylisoxazoles to cage-shaped bis-β-lactams syn 2,6-diaryl-3,7-diazatricyclo[4.2.0.02,5]octan-4,8-diones induced by hindered lithium amides

3-Arylisoxazoles react with hindered lithium amides giving syn 2,6-diaryl-3,7-diazatricyclo[4.2.0.02,5]octan-4,8-diones in good to fair yields. Stereochemistry of the so-obtained cage-shaped bis-β-lactams was assigned by X-ray diffraction analysis. Concerning the mechanism of formation of such hitherto unknown molecules, dimerization of an azetinone anion intermediate stereoselectively induced by Li+ chelation is suggested.