The absolute configuration of the centre of asymmetry in the side chain of the alkaloid vincetene (1) was determined by ozonolysis and subsequent unequivocal transformations affording the (S)-enantiomer of 1,2-propanediyl dibenzoate (4).
Lipases from Mucor miehei (MML) and Candida antarctica (CAL) are able to catalyze the benzoylation of the primary hydroxy group of 1.2-diols with vinyl benzoate in organic solvents. We have studied the MML-catalyzed benzoylation that proceeds with high regioselectivity and moderate enantioselectivity, whereas in the dibenzoylation reaction activity of MML and stereoselectivity of the enzymatic process is strongly influenced by steric factors. (C) 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
The absolute configuration of the centre of asymmetry in the side chain of the alkaloid vincetene (1) was determined by ozonolysis and subsequent unequivocal transformations affording the (S)-enantiomer of 1,2-propanediyl dibenzoate (4).