文摘
Alkylations of 4-cyano-1,3-dioxanes (cyanohydrin acetonides) represent a highly practical approach to syn-1,3-diol synthesis. Herein we present a comprehensive summary of cyanohydrin acetonide chemistry, with particular emphasis on practical aspects of couplings, as well as their utility in natural product synthesis. Both 4-acetoxy-1,3-dioxanes and 4-lithio-1,3-dioxanes have emerged as interesting anti-1,3-diol synthons. The preparation and utility of these two synthons are described.