Synthesis of new 3-(1-ethylsulfanyl-2-perfluoroalkyl)-5-hydroxy-5-methyl (or 5-phenyl)-1,5-dihydro-pyrrol-2-ones starting from γ-keto thioesters and amines

gamma-Keto thioesters were easily transformed into alpha,beta-unsaturated lactams using a two-step process (via furans) or by a one-pot reaction. This methodology is general and efficient leading to a varied substitution pattern. The structures of all new heterocycles were assigned using 2D NMR experiments, computer-assisted elucidation, and X-ray diffraction analyses.