Stereoselective synthesis of γ-amino acids

γ-Amino acids have attracted considerable attention as biologically active compounds in the central nervous system (CNS) of mammals. Over the last few years, significant interest in the stereoselective synthesis and practical application of linear and cyclic chiral γ-amino acids in the synthesis and design of α,β- and β,γ-hybrid peptides with definite secondary structures and design of nanotubes has been reported, thus demonstrating the theoretical interest and the practical importance of γ-amino acids. An overview of synthetic approaches to linear and cyclic chiral γ-amino acids and derivatives is presented. Data on the practical applications of γ-amino acids are also discussed.