Abstract
Starting with (+) - and (-) -limonenes as chiral synthons, syntheses of biologically active compounds such as prostaglandins, (+) -brefeldin A and nepetalactones have been studied. The key-step of these conversions is based on the stereoselective cyclization of 3, 4-disubstituted 4-pentenals into cis-3, 4-disubstituted cyclopentanones using the Rh (I) -complex.
Ring cleavage and reconstruction of five and six membered rings under acetalization conditions are also discussed.
