Exploring solid-phase approaches for the preparation of new beta-lactams from amino acids

Two solid-phase approaches, involving the base-assisted intramolecular alkylation of N-chloroacetyl-Phe derivatives anchored to appropriate solid supports, were investigated for the preparation of novel beta-lactams. When a BAL-type strategy was used, the resin-bound azetidinones were easily formed, as established by MAS-NMR, but final compounds could not be removed from the resin, unless a suitable two linkers system was used. In the second approach, in which the Phe residue is anchored to a Wang-type resin through the carboxylate group, the corresponding 1,4,4-trisubstituted 2-azetidinone was obtained in moderate to good yield and high purity.