Toward a total synthesis of amphidinolide X and Y. The tetrahydrofuran-containing fragment C12-C21.

The key THF derivative (9a) for an enantioselective synthesis of amphidinolide X/Y was obtained from 1a via a selenoetherification reaction. In fact, among the cyclization methods investigated, the highest yield and stereocontrol were achieved at -78 degrees C with PhSeCl/EtiPr2N from diols 1a (anti-Z) and 1b (anti-E) and with PhSeCl/ZnBr2 from diols 1c (syn-Z) and 1d (syn-E). Also, surprisingly, use of protecting groups (on the allylic OH) was detrimental in the cases studied. The diverse THF-tetrasubstituted stereoisomers will provide a series of amphidinolide X/Y analogues. [structure: see text]