The first synthesis of nitro-substituted cyclopropanes and spiropentanes via oxidation of the corresponding amino derivatives

A novel approach to nitro-substituted cyclopropanes and spiropentanes via oxidation of the corresponding amines with dimethyldioxirane is reported. The method is used successfully for the preparation of a series of nitrocyclopropanes as well as for the first synthesis of 1,4-dinitrospiro[2.2]pentane.