Synthetic Studies on Azadirachtin: Asymmetric Synthesis of the Tetracyclic Decalin Part of Azadirachtin

Abstract

A synthesis of the tetracyclic decalin part of azadirachtin in the naturally occurring form is described. The key reactions involve the Corey-Bakshi-Shibata (CBS) asymmetric reduction of the ketone, and an intramolecular Diels - Alder (IMDA) reaction.