The report describes the preparation and use of a double-C3
building
block intended as a head group synthon in the synthesis of saturated,
mono-, and polyunsaturated 1-O-alkyl-sn-glycerol type methoxylated ether lipids (MELs). The resulting head
piece, an enantiopure isopropylidene-protected glyceryl glycidyl ether
diastereomer, was accomplished in 49% yield (max 50%) from a 1:1 diastereomeric
mixture obtained from R-solketal and racemic epichlorohydrin
after treatment with the Jacobsen (S,S)-Co(III)salen catalyst for the hydrolytic kinetic resolution of
terminal epoxides. The diol hydrolytic product obtained in 47% yield
from the unwanted diastereomer was reconverted into epoxide with an
inversion of configuration in a three-step operation involving a highly
regioselective lipase. This enabled the recovery of a substantial
amount of diastereopure material after a subsequent treatment with
the Jacobsen catalyst to furnish the oxirane head piece in altogether
72% yield of higher than 99% diastereomeric purity. A modified synthesis
of a monounsaturated 16:1 MEL confirmed the correct stereochemistry
and excellent enantiopurity of the head piece and resulted in a dramatic
improvement in yields, efficiency, and economy of the synthesis.
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