The 2- and 3-C-Methyl Derivatives of Methyl 2,3-Dideoxy-α-D-erythro-hex-2-enopyranosid-4-ulose

Abstract

The oxirane rings of carbohydrate 2,3-anhydro sugars are opened stereospecifically by lithium dimethyl cuprate. These reactions go in high yields, without the formation of abberant side products encountered with other organometallic reagents. The alcohols produced are converted via their xanthate esters to olefins in good overall yields. The latter on hydrolysis and oxidation give the title enones.