The general term "enaminone" is applied to any compound bearing the conjugated system N-C=C-C=O. Enaminones are typical capto-dative ethylenes, showing particular properties due to pi-electron delocalization. Their reactivity can be predicted by structural patterns of substitution, conformation and configuration, making them versatile synthetic building blocks. In this review, a variety of methods for the synthesis of enaminones is described. The methods were divided into condensation of amines to beta-dicarbonyl compounds, addition of amines to <FONT FACE=Symbol>a,b</FONT>-unsaturated carbonyl compounds, condensation between carbonyl compounds and N-unsaturated functions and other methods, covering the period from 1993 to 2001.
beta-enamino ketones; beta-enamino esters; methods of preparation
