A novel and efficient synthetic approach to polyfunctional bicyclo[3.1.0]hexane derivatives

1,3-Dipolar cycloaddition of diazomethane and nucleophilic oxirane-ring opening are the key steps in the synthesis of chiral and highly functionalized title compounds all of them bearing two quaternary carbons and three other stereocenters. Hydroxy esters and hydroxy amino esters have been prepared in good yields as representative instances of the versatility of the method described. © 1995.