Stereoselective approach to the DEF ring system of terpendole E

Diastereoselective construction of a DEF ring model of terpendole E, a M phase-specific antimitotic natural product, has been achieved from a known bicyclic keto ester by a 10-step (or 12-step) sequence that features an efficient one-pot intramolecular etherification of an olefinic alcohol with mCPBA. The synthesis proceeded in an excellent overall yield of 36% through 10 steps or in 56% via 12 steps which involved a highly diastereoselective reduction of a ketone derived from an undesired diastereomeric alcohol intermediate.