Synthetic applications of chiral 2,3-dihydro-4-pyridones

During the last decade, 2,3-dihydro-4-pyridones have become important intermediates for the synthesis of various alkaloids and biologically active compounds. The versatility of these heterocyclic building blocks has been demonstrated by the synthesis of several complex natural products. This review will cover recent work on the synthesis of substituted dihydropyridones, and their application in the synthesis of complex molecules.