A versatile approach to the total synthesis of the pseudomonic acids

Abstract

The total synthesis of pseudomonic acid C is described using an approach which gives access to analogues and putative biosynthetic precursors; the key step is installation of the C₇ side-chain via alkylation of a trisubstituted δ-lactone with complete stereocontrol and in 85% yield under conditions which avoid the possible competing elimination of a protected hydroxy group β to the carbonyl.