Divergent Total Syntheses of (+)-Vulgarisins A-E.

Abstract

The asymmetric total syntheses of (+)-vulgarisins A-E, which share a rare and highly oxygenated [5-6-4-5] tetracyclic core structure that were isolated from P. vulgaris Linn., have been described for the first time in a divergent manner. Key transformations include: 1) a catalytic asymmetric intramolecular cyclopropanation to forge the A ring bearing desired stereochemistry at C14; 2) a one-pot borylation/conjugate addition process for creation of the C1-C11 bond; 3) a Wolff ring contraction to assemble the bicyclo[3.2.0]heptane subunit (CD rings); and 4) a stereocontrolled pinacol cyclization for construction of the central B ring of the natural products.