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Abstract: A methodology is described for the synthesis of 2,6-disubstituted dihydro[2H]pyrans through a Lewis-acid catalyzed 6-endo-trig cyclization of β-hydroxy-γ,δ-unsaturated alcohols. Employing alkyl-substituted allylic diols and catalytic amounts of a Lewis acid, such as BF3·OEt2, the corresponding syn-pyrans are formed highly diastereoselectively and in good yields. The described process is simple to execute, proceeds readily at ambient temperature, and is scalable. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The development of efficient Friedel–Crafts alkylations of arenes and heteroarenes using only catalytic amounts of a Lewis acid has gained much attention over the last decade. The new catalytic approaches described in this review are favoured over classical Friedel–Crafts conditions as benzyl-, propargyl- and allyl alcohols, or styrenes, can be used instead of toxic benzyl halides. Additionally, only low catalyst loadings are needed to provide a wide range of products. Following a short introduction about the origin and classical definition of the Friedel–Crafts reaction, the review will describe the different environmentally benign substrates which can be applied today as an approach towards greener processes. Additionally, the first diastereoselective and enantioselective Friedel–Crafts-type alkylations will be highlighted.

Abstract: We report a study of the influence of Lewis acids upon the regioselectivity of ring opening of quinolinic[2,3]anhydrides to provide 2-(isopropoxycarbonyl)-nicotinic acids. In the presence of stoichiometric amounts of indium trifluoromethanesulfonate or lanthanum trifluoromethanesulfonate, the desired 2-position ester was generated with greater than 95:5 regioselectivity. This methodology was also applied to 6-methyl-[2,3]-quinoline to provide similar results. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Different silylated 1,2-dithiins, obtained through self-dimerization of the related α,β-ethylenic thioacylsilanes, in the presence of AlCl3 show an unusual rearrangement leading in good yields to novel silyl-endodisulfide bicyclic systems. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]