Total synthesis of (-)-dihydroprotolichesterenic acid via diastereoselective conjugate addition to chiral fumarates.

ABSTRACT

A diastereoselective conjugate addition of a variety of monoorganocuprates, Li[RCuI], to chiral fumarates to provide funtionalized succinates has been developed. The utility of this reaction is demonstrated in a concise total synthesis of (-)-dihydroprotolichesterenic acid that required only four steps and proceeded in an overall 31% yield.