Synthesis of L-2-oxothiazolidine-4-carboxylic acid.

An improved synthesis of L-2- oxothiazolidine -4-carboxylic acid is described. The new procedure, which leads to excellent yields of product, does not require the use of phosgene. The new method is thus less hazardous than the original one, and is readily adaptable to the preparation of 35S-labeled product.