A concise route to structurally diverse DMP 323 analogues via highly functionalized 1,4-diamines.

[reaction: see text] The utility of functionalized 1,4-diamines, produced via a temporary phosphorus tether (P-tether)/ring-closing metathesis (RCM)/hydrolysis sequence, is demonstrated in the synthesis of structurally diverse DMP 323 analogues. These 1,4-diamines are transformed into various seven-membered heterocycles via insertion of the appropriate nuclei "X". Subsequent derivatization generates heterocyclic diols that are similar in structure to DMP 323, a notable member of a class of highly potent inhibitors of HIV protease.