Function-oriented synthesis: studies aimed at the synthesis and mode of action of 1alpha-alkyldaphnane analogues.

[reaction: see text] An efficient synthetic route to the ABC tricyclic core of 1alpha-alkyldaphnanes has been developed. The conformational bias imparted by the C6-C9 oxo-bridge of BC-ring system 12 was used to elaborate the ABC-ring system precursor including the introduction of the beta-C5 hydroxyl group. A completely diastereoselective palladium-catalyzed enyne cyclization was then employed to establish the A-ring with a C1 appendage.