Synthesis and CD spectroscopy of polyethers with homochiral and heterochiral layers of stereocentres

Eight polyethers with three to nine stereocentres have been synthesised using chiral base methodology. Examination of the polyethers by CD spectroscopy revealed clear differences between homochiral isomers and isomers with a heterochiral relationship between an 'inner' layer of stereocentres and an 'outer' layer of stereocentres. A hypothesis to account for these differences has been advanced.

The synthesis of eight polyethers with three to nine stereocentres is described. Homochiral isomers such as the one depicted gave significantly different CD spectra to their heterochiral counterparts.