The Stereoselective Synthesis of Neolignans

Abstract

Neolignans, dehydrodimers of phenylpropenes, are important natural products with high structural diversity and various biological properties. Several diastereo- and enantioselective synthesis of neolignans have been developed in the past, either specific for each of the various neolignan skeletons or randomized. This review summarizes the efforts towards the synthesis of chiral neolignans, racemic and optically active, and provides a brief outlook for future developments.