Electrochemical Formal (3 + 2) Cycloaddition/Imidation Cascade: Easy Access to Triazabicyclo-[3.3.0] Scaffolds

The established strategy unveils an electrochemical formal (3 + 2) cycloaddition/imidation sequence between N-aryl glycinamides and 5-methoxyoxazoles, furnishing diversely substituted imidazoline fused pyrrole-2,5-dione scaffolds. This diastereocontrolled cascade annulation operates with the assistance of ZnCl2 as a Lewis acid catalyst and provides two contiguous stereocenters as part of the [3.3.0]triazabicyclic core structure. An extensive range of distinct functionalities is well tolerated under this mild electrochemical condition, contributing to a broad substrate scope.