General synthesis of highly functionalized cyclopentane segments for the preparation of jatrophane diterpenes: Organic Letters

Short and efficient syntheses of two diastereomeric cyclopentane segments present in most jatrophane diterpenes were achieved. Key steps are a stereoselective C-2 elongation, an RCM, and a hydroboration reaction. An orthogonal protecting group methodology makes these segments useful building blocks for diterpene synthesis. © 2009 American Chemical Society.