One-pot synthesis of acyclic nucleosides from carbohydrate derivatives, by combination of tandem and sequential reactions.

The design of processes which combine tandem and sequential reactions allows the transformation of readily available precursors into high-profit products. This strategy is illustrated by the one-pot synthesis of acyclic nucleosides, which are potential antiviral compounds, from readily available carbohydrates. The reaction conditions are mild, compatible with most functional groups. Depending on the starting sugar, both common and uncommon acyclic chains can be prepared. These polyhydroxylated chains can be combined with different bases to generate diversity.