Synthetic studies on cyathin diterpenes - Total synthesis of (±)-allocyathin B3
The synthesis of racemic allocyathin B3 from an advanced intermediate possessing the ring system and relative stereochemistry but lacking the isopropyl and hydroxymethyl groups is reported. The isopropyl group was introduced by radical cyclization of a methyl propargyl acetal of an α-bromoketone and the hydroxymethyl group was generated by Pd-catalyzed carbonylation of a vinyl triflate. The route provides functionalized intermediates that could allow access to more complex members of the cyathin family of diterpenes. Several modifications and improvements to the procedures previously described for the synthesis of the advanced intermediate have been achieved.Key words: cyathin diterpenes, cyathanes, allocyathin B3.