Helical primary structures of 1,2-spiroannelated five-membered rings: attempted synthesis of (±)-tetraspiro[4.0.0.0.4.3.3.3]heneicosane

The synthesis of a β-hydroxy ketone with a helical carbon skeleton of five 1,2-spiroannelated five-membered rings is described. Various attempts of a conversion to the title tetraspirane failed.