Synthesis of (+)-leopersin D

This paper describes the use of (−)-sclareol in the first synthesis of the spirolabdanolide (+)-leopersin D, which also establishes the absolute configuration of the product. The reversibility of conjugate addition/elimination of oxaspirolabdanolide formation is demonstrated.

The spirolabdanolide (+)-leopersin D has been synthesized from (−)-sclareol. The absolute configuration of the natural product has been established.