Preparation of gamma-lactams 2a-h and 4a-h as part of a bi-or tri-cycle system in a one-pot Ugi-4-centre-3-component reaction (U-4C-3CR). A 3-keto or aldo acid was used as bifunctional educt. The application of C-protected amino acids as amine components enables an intramolecular condensation forming 2,6-piperazinediones 5a-h, connected to the gamma-lactam system (1,4-diazabicyclo[4.3.0]nonane-3,5,9-triones). (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.