Abstract A totalsynthesis of (+)-muricatacin and a formalsynthesis of CMI-977 have been achieved using commercially available l-malic acid based on our furan approach to oxacyclic systems, the proven scope of which is thus broadened. A totalsynthesis of (+)-muricatacin and a formalsynthesis of CMI-977 have been achieved using commercially available l-malic acid based on our furan approach to oxacyclic