Stereoselective synthesis of (all-Z)-hentriaconta-3,6,9,12,15,19,22,25,28-nonaene

Abstract

Several microorganisms produce small quantities of polyunsaturated hydrocarbons and such natural products are of interest. Starting from the ethyl ester of eicosapentaenoic acid, the total synthesis of the natural product (all-Z)-hentriaconta-3,6,9,12,15,19,22,25,28-nonaene has been achieved in eight steps and 15% overall yield. The synthesis is based on a stereoselective Wittig reaction and confirms the all-Z-configuration of the nine double bonds in this highly unsaturated natural product.