Regioselective radical ring-opening reaction of bicyclo[4.2.0]octan-2-ones promoted by samarium(II) iodide

Radical ring-opening reactions of bicyclo[4.2.0]octanones, its C6 alkyl derivatives, and tricyclic ketones promoted by SmI2 gave cyclohexanones via fission of the external cyclobutane bond. The CO2Me, CN, and phenyl derivatives led to the production of the eight-membered ring compounds through cleavage of the central cyclobutane bond. Using this regioselective reaction, the synthesis of (±)-acorenone was achieved.