An improved and novel approach to macrolactonisation using di-tert-butyl dicarbonate

Article abstract of DOI:10.1016/S0040-4020(99)00718-8

A new, facile, mild and simple method for the synthesis of macrolides was achieved from ω- hydroxy acids using di-tertbutyl dicarbonate (Boc₂O), a cheap and commercially available reagent. A wide range of substrates were tested and give good yield of lactones. The effect of various simple bases on the yield of the macrolactonisation reaction was also studied.