3-Oxetanone can be used to synthesize: · Various oxetane-containing lead compounds with improved solubility, reduced lipophilicity and amphiphilicity. · (Hydroxymethyl)oxazoles and (hydroxymethyl)thiazoles via single-step microwave mediated reaction with primary amides and thioamides, respectively. · Oxetane containing spirocycles through thermal 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reaction with α-amino acids or secondary α-amino acid esters 3-Oxetanone can be used to synthesize: · Various oxetane-containing lead compounds with improved solubility, reduced lipophilicity and amphiphilicity. · (Hydroxymethyl)oxazoles and (hydroxymethyl)thiazoles via single-step microwave mediated reaction with primary amides and thioamides, respectively. · Oxetane containing spirocycles through thermal 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reaction with α-amino acids or secondary α-amino acid esters