A concise and improved synthesis of (+)-eleutherin, (+)-allo-eleutherin and a formal synthesis of (+)-nocardione B

A concise and improved stereoselective synthesis of (+)-eleutherin, (+)-allo-eleutherin and the formal synthesis of (+)-nocardione B is described. The synthesis is based on a Dotz benzannulation and an improved oxa-Pictet-Spengler cyclization as the key steps. The synthesis is achieved in six steps in overall yields of 18% for eleutherin and 20% for allo-eleutherin. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.