Synthesis, structural characterization and conformational aspects of nostoclide analogues

The synthesis and structural analysis of a set of nostoclide analogues with potential herbicide activity is described. The influence of intra- and intermolecular hydrogen bonding, as well as other interactions on the conformation and packing of the compounds is thoroughly described using DFT calculations and single crystal X-ray diffraction analyses. All lactones exhibited the Z configuration as confirmed by NOESY experiments and by single crystal X-ray diffraction measurements.