A convergent approach for the total synthesis of (-)-synrotolide diacetate

A simple carbohydrate based convergent approach towards the total synthesis of (-)-synrotolide diacetate is described employing a Sharpless asymmetric epoxidation, a Grignard assisted lactol opening with a terminal alkyne and a Wittig reaction using the Horner-Emmons reagent as the key steps. (c) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.