Total synthesis of a cytotoxic acetogenin, pyranicin.

[structure: see text] The first total synthesis of a new cytotoxic acetogenin, pyranicin (1), is described. SmI(2)-induced reductive cyclization of beta-alkoxy acrylate 4 proceeded stereoselectively to give 16,20-syn-19,20-trans-THP derivative 14, which was efficiently transformed into the 19,20-cis-THP derivative 18 through Mitsunobu lactonization. Wittig reaction of the phosphonium salt 2 obtained therefrom with butenolide 3 at -78 degrees C followed by reduction and deprotection afforded 1 in good overall yield.