Bicyclo[4.1.0]heptenes, which are readily accessible molecules via the transition metal-catalyzed cycloisomerization of 1,6-enynes, and have served as useful building blocks in organic synthesis. These molecules can undergo a variety of ring-opening reactions given that the release of the cyclopropyl ring strain (27.5 kcal/mol) may serve as a thermodynamic driving force for reactions, and the double bond within the skeleton can afford the kinetic opportunity to initiate the ring-opening via a coordination to a metal species. Even though the chemistry of the cyclopropyl group has been widely explored in organic chemistry, less attention has been paid to the chemistry of bicyclo[4.1.0]heptenes. However, during the past 5 years, we have been engaged in the exploration of the chemistry of bicyclo[4.1.0]heptenes. This review describes the chemistry developed in our laboratory. Depending upon the position, number, and identity of the substituent(s), the identity of the tether group, and the nature of the catalytic system, bicyclo[4.1.0]heptenes can undergo a variety of transformations. Our studies have revealed the reaction patterns of bicyclo[4.1.0]heptenes which include thermal reactions, nucleophilic addition, and rhodium-catalyzed reactions, that can proceed both with and without opening of the cyclopropyl ring. The chemistry described in this review can be used to produce a variety of new compounds such as 2,4-pentadienals, 3-methylene-4-vinylcyclohex-1-enes, bicyclo[3.2.2]nonadienes, 1,6,7,9a-tetrahydrocyclohepta[c] pyrans and -pyridines, hexahydroisoquinolines, 4-oxa-6-azatricyclo[3.3.0.02,8]octanes, and heterotricyclo[3.3.1.02,8]nonanes.
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