First asymmetric synthesis of chiral analogues of the novel immunosuppressant FTY720

FTY720 is an immunosuppressant with a novel mode of action and is highly effective in animal models of transplantation and autoimmunity. Herein we describe the first asymmetric synthesis of chiral FTY720 analogues using the Schِllkopf-protocol. We also describe a practical synthesis of the corresponding phosphates, which are essential tools for elucidation of FTY720ʹs mechanism of action.