Facile Synthesis of Opitcally Active γ-Lactones via Lipase-catalyzed Reaction of 4-Substituted 4-Hydroxybutyramides

Abstract

Lipase-catalyzed transesterification of acemic 4-substituted 4-hydroxybutyramides with succinic anhydride proceeded enantioselectively to afoord (S)-succinic acid monoester and unreacted (R)-4-hydroxybutyramide derivative, which were separated easily by treatment with an alkaline solution. Both enantiomers were convereted easily to opitcally active γ-substituted γ-butyrolactones.