Synthesis of γ-aminobutyric acid analogs based on carbohydrate scaffolds

γ-Aminobutyric acid analogs based on sugar scaffolds were prepared in six to nine steps starting from d-glucal and d-galactal. The key step in the synthesis is the Vilsmeier–Haack reaction that affords the corresponding 2-C-formyl glycal on treatment with DMF and POCl3. Oxidation of the aldehyde and reduction of the 4-azido group provided the corresponding GABA analog. Acylamide and tetrazole analogs were also prepared as the bioisosteres of the carboxylic acid.

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