The stereoselective total synthesis of zeaenol and 7-epi-zeaenol is achieved in a convergent manner using Julia-Kocienski olefination, protecting group-directed intermolecular diastereoselective Nozaki–Hiyama–Kishi (NHK) reaction, De Brabander's lactonization reaction and CBS reduction as the key steps. In this article, we have observed the most suitable protecting groups with respect to selectivity during the protecting group directed intermolecular asymmetric Nozaki–Hiyama–Kishi reaction. The zeaenol, 7-epi-zeaenol and its derivatives were analyzed for their biological activity and screened in four cancer cell lines.
