4-Phosphono-β-lactams are synthesized via a three-step sequence, including final formation of the C3-C4 bond through a phosphorus-stabilized carbanion. The chlorinated precursors can be synthesized via two different methods: a one-pot N-acylation of an aromatic imine followed by addition of a trialkyl phosphite or phosphonylation of a suitable imine followed by N-acylation in a separate reaction step. The former method was preferred because of the ease of the reaction and the good yields obtained.
acylations - addition reactions - β-lactams - aminophosphonates - acyliminium salts