Transformation of oxiranes into other oxygen-containing heterocyclic systems

The review analyzes published data on the transformations of epoxy derivatives into other oxygen-containing heterocyclic systems, such as cyclic ethers (including cage-like structures), dioxolanes, ortho esters, lactones, and cyclic carbonates, some of which occur in the nature and exhibit biological activity. Reaction mechanisms involving heterolytic, homolytic, enzymatic, and single-electron transfer processes, as well as 2+2]- and 3+3]-cycloadditions, are discussed.Translated from Zhurnal Organicheskoi Khimii, Vol. 40, No. 9, 2004, pp. 1279–1432.Original Russian Text Copyright © 2004 by L. Kasyan, Tarabara, A. Kasyan.