Stereoselective synthesis of the enantiomer of the key fragment of crocacin

A novel, stereoselective synthesis of the enantiomer of alcohol 5 is disclosed. The key steps of the synthesis include mercuric trifluoroacetate promoted regio- and stereoselective hydration of an α,β-unsaturated ester, Frater-alkylation and use of morpholine derived amide for acylation.