Stereochemically Controlled Bakers'-Yeast-Mediated Reductions: Synthesis of (S)-(+)-1,2-Propanediol and (S)-(-)-1,3-Butanediol, 1-Benzyl Ethers

Article abstract of DOI:10.1055/s-1987-28149

Benzyloxyketones 1a and b can be reduced by fermenting bakers' yeast to the corresponding protected (S)-diols 2a and b in 76 and 52percent yields, respectively (90 and >95percent e.e., respectively, as (R)-(+)-MTPA esters).