A novel approach to the Geissman-Waiss lactone and a key intermediate in the synthesis of pyrrolidine trans-lactones

Abstract

Based on the highly regio- and diastereoselective reductive-ethoxycarbonylmethylation of protected (S)-malimide 4, a new approach to the Geissman-Waiss lactone 1 and a key intermediate 3 for the synthesis of pyrrolidine trans-lactones (e.g., 2) is described. The synthesis features a one-step and a two-step chemoselective reduction of an amide carbonyl in the presence of an ester group as the key steps. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.