An efficient, modular approach for the synthesis of (+)-strictifolione and a related natural product.

An efficient, library amenable, "pot economical" total synthesis of (+)-strictifolione and the related natural product, (6R)-6[(E,4R,6R)-4,6-dihydroxy-10-phenyl-1-decenyl]-5,6-dihydro-2H-2-pyrone, are reported. This modular approach takes advantage of two consecutive phosphate tether-mediated, one-pot, sequential protocols, followed by a final cross metathesis to deliver both antifungal natural products in a three-pot process from the respective enantiomeric (R,R)- and (S,S)-trienes with minimal purification. A salient feature of this route is that additional protecting groups are not required as a result of the orthogonal protecting- and leaving-group properties innate to phosphate triesters.