A unified stereoselective synthesis of 4-substituted kainoids is reported. Four kainic acid analogues were obtained in 8-11 steps with up to 54% overall yields. Starting from trans-4-hydroxy-l-proline, the sequence enables a late-stage modification of C4 substituents with sp2 nucleophiles. Stereoselective steps include a cerium-promoted nucleophilic addition and a palladium-catalyzed reduction. A 10-step route to acid 21a was also established to enable ready functionalization of the C4 position.