Derivatives of azetidin-2-one

摘要

The invention relates to new heterocyclic compounds containing a C-acetyl group, of general formula III wherein R represents a protecting group suitable for temporary protection of amines and/or amides, or an aryl group, and Z represents an alkyl group. A process for the preparation of the new compounds is described as are novel intermediates for use in the preparation of compounds of formula III. The compounds of formula III have valuable properties; they are useful as intermediates in a new synthetic route to thienamycin. Compounds of formula III wherein R represents an aryl group are pharmaceutically active and possess antihypoxic properties.