Toward the Total Synthesis of Scleritodermin A: Preparation of the C(1)-N(15) Fragment.

The synthesis of the C(1)-N(15) fragment of the marine natural product Scleritodermin A has been accomplished through a short and stereocontrolled sequence. Highlights of this route include the synthesis of the novel ACT fragment and the formation of the alpha-keto amide linkage by the use of a highly activated alpha, beta-ketonitrile.