Organophosphorus catalysis to bypass phosphine oxide waste

The conversion of oxygen-containing compounds is often achieved by the use of phosphorus reagents. The newly formed phosphine oxide bond delivers the enthalpic gain that drives reactions, such as the Wittig, Mitsunobu, and Appel reaction, to completion. However, phosphine oxides are recognized as undesirable waste products and in the past decade several methods have emerged that address this issue by in situ regeneration of the phosphorus reagent. This Minireview outlines the two distinct strategies and underpinning research that led to these advances. The potential of the emerging field of phosphorus catalysis in chemistry is shown and new developments that may stimulate further research are described.

Total synthesis and absolute stereochemistry of integric acid

An efficient total synthesis of integric acid is described starting from the Wieland-Miescher ketone. Key steps involve a one-step orthogonal deprotection/protection strategy of a thioacetal/aldehyde and the selective oxidative cleavage of a prenyl group in the presence of two other unsaturated moieties. The synthesis of both C4' diastereoisomers of integric acid delivered unambiguous evidence for (S)-stereochemistry at the C4' position.