Synthesis 2010(13): 2271-2277  
DOI: 10.1055/s-0029-1218804
PAPER
© Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart ˙ New York

Asymmetric Synthesis of Thiadecalins via an Organocatalytic Triple Cascade/Sulfa-Michael Sequence

Dieter Enders*, Bertram Schmid, Nico Erdmann, Gerhard Raabe
Institute of Organic Chemistry, RWTH Aachen University, Landoltweg 1, 52074 Aachen, Germany
Fax: +49(241)8092127; e-Mail: enders@rwth-aachen.de;
Further Information

Publication History

Received 5 May 2010
Publication Date:
27 May 2010 (online)

Abstract

An efficient two-step asymmetric synthesis of highly substituted cis-configured thiadecalins and the corresponding hexahydrobenzothiophene core is described. Thiadecalin derivatives are known for their widespread biological activities, such as antimicrobial and neurotropic properties. The procedure is based on an organocatalytic triple cascade reaction followed by an intramolecular sulfa-Michael addition. In this manner six consecutive ste­reo­centres are controlled and the target molecules are obtained in moderate yields, with virtually complete enantioselectivitiy (ee >99%) and after recystallisation in diastereomeric ratios of >97:3. The relative and absolute configuration was determined by NMR spectroscopy and X-ray structure analysis.