10.1021/ol051411t
The study presents the total synthesis of serofendic acids A and B, which are neuroprotective agents with complex structures featuring nine stereocenters and an atisane framework. The key strategic element of the synthesis involves a novel tin-free homoallyl-homoallyl radical rearrangement for constructing the bicyclo[2.2.2]octane ring system. Various chemicals were used in the study, including sodium thiomethoxide for the Michael reaction, Barton-McCombie deoxygenation protocol for promoting the rearrangement, and Taber's technique for radical generation under tin-free conditions. Other chemicals mentioned include NaBH4, (imid)2CdS, Bu3SnH, AIBN, toluene, PPh3, DEAD, NBSH, THF, TsNHNH2, NaBH3CN, ZnCl2, and benzeneseleninic anhydride, among others. These chemicals served various purposes in the synthesis process, such as reducing agents, catalysts, and reagents for specific reactions, ultimately leading to the successful synthesis of serofendic acids A and B.