Synthesis of glucose derivatives modified at the 4-OH as potential chain-terminators of cellulose biosynthesis; herbicidal activity of simple monosaccharide derivatives

A series of D-glucose derivatives that have been modified at C-4 were synthesised from D-galactose as potential chain terminators of cellulose biosynthesis. Two compounds displayed herbicidal activity in pre-emergence tests and in addition a cell expansion assay at higher concentrations revealed symptomology of a third compound that was indicative of inhibition of cellulose biosynthesis.