Functionalizing the γ-position of α-diazo-β-ketoesters

Although α-diazo-β-ketoesters are synthetically versatile intermediates, methodology for introducing this functionality into complex molecules is still limited, most frequently involving a carboxylic acid precursor, which is then activated and transformed into a β-ketoester, with the diazo group being subsequently added with a diazo transfer reagent. While introducing this highly functional moiety in a convergent one step process would be ideal, such an objective is limited by the relatively few studies which address functionalization of the α-diazo-β-ketoester at the γ-position. In the present investigation, we evaluate strategies, both new and established, for functionalizing α-diazo-β-ketoesters, particularly with regard to generating compounds prospectively useful in the synthesis of C1-substituted carbapenems. We report the first δ-aldehydo-α-diazo-β-ketoester as well as a method for its oxidation to the corresponding methyl ester, and the formation of a new substituted pyrazole under basic conditions.