Application of a new tandem isomerization-aldolization reaction of allylic alcohols to the synthesis of three diastereoisomers of (2R)-1,2-O-isopropylidene-4-methylpentane-1,2,3,5-tetraol

The tandem isomerization-aldolization reaction of (2R)-1,2-O-isopropylidene-4-penten-1,2,3-triol 3 and formaldehyde gives a mixture of two aldol products 2a and 2b. The stereoselective reduction of each compound by L-Selectride affords two diastereoisomers of (2R)-1,2-O-Isopropylidene-4-methylpentane-1,2,3,5-tetraol while a third diastereoisomer is obtained by stereoselective reduction with Me4NHB(OAc)(3).