This review surveys the different asymmetric and non-asymmetric Pd-catalyzed heterocyclizations of allylic alcohols, esters, ethers, carbonates, amines or silanes and vinyl epoxides, which bear a hydroxylated tether. Lactones or carbonates have been obtained from reactions carried out under carbon oxide or carbon dioxide atmosphere, respectively. The dichotomy between the mechanisms of the Pd-0 and Pd-II processes is emphasized. (C) 2009 Elsevier BY. All rights reserved.