Unexpected role of O-2 "protecting" groups of glycosyl donors in mediating regioselective glycosidation.

Glycosidation of several vicinal diols reveals that exquisite regioselectivity can be achieved by using 2-O-benzoyl n-pentenyl glycoside donors and/or their cyclic 1,2-ortho ester counterparts. The regioselective preferences for both are the same, although ratios and yields may differ. In stark contrast, glycosidation of the diols with the corresponding 2-O-benzylated donors gives poor, if any, regioselectivity.