The total synthesis of (S)-2,4-dihydroxy-1-butyl (4-hydroxyl) benzoate

This study is the first synthesis of (S)-2,4-dihydroxy-1-butyl (4-hydroxy) benzoate, a newly discovered natural product with anti-tumor properties from the fungus, Penicillium auratiogriseum. The key steps are a 1,3 diol protection followed by the coupling of p-anisic acid to the protected alcohol and subsequent de-protection steps.