Synthetic studies towards the pectenotoxins: a review

In this article we provide an overview of synthetic studies towards pectenotoxins (PTXs) that have been reported by several research groups. The difficulties encountered in the synthesis of these series of polyketides are highlighted by the fact that only one total synthesis of PTX4 and PTX8 has been completed to date. The strategies used in the critical bond forming steps and the introduction of key stereogenic centres are compared and contrasted.