Use of a Baylis–Hillman adduct in the stereoselective synthesis of syributins via a RCM protocol

The total synthesis of syributins 1 and 2 using the Baylis–Hillman adduct of 2,3-O-isopropylidene-R-glyceraldehyde-ethyl acrylate as starting material followed by ring closing metathesis (RCM) of the acrylate derivative of the ensuing diol as the key step is reported.