An efficient stereoselective synthesis of (+)-deoxoprosophylline

An efficient stereoselective synthesis of (+)-deoxoprosophylline from readily available p-anisaldehyde is described. Key steps in the synthesis include the stereoselective amination of anti-1,2-dibenzyl ether using chlorosulfonyl isocyanate, intermolecular olefination, and Pd-catalyzed intramolecular cyclization.