An efficient multicomponent stereoselective synthesis of 1,2,4-trisubstituted 1,3-thiazetidines

The first one-pot three-component coupling reaction of O,O-diethyl hydrogen phosphorodithioate, aldehydes, and aldimines affording 1,2,4-trisubstituted 1,3-thiazetidines is reported. The product is obtained in moderate to high yields (45-94%) and has excellent diastereoselectivity (90-96%) in favour of the cis isomer. Shorter reaction times, ambient temperature, operational simplicity, and high yields are the salient features of the present procedure.