Stereoselective approach to (2R,3S)- and (2R,3R)-1,2-(cyclohexylidenedioxy)hept-6-en-3-ol by microbial reduction

► Microbial reduction of (R)-1,2-(cyclohexylidenedioxy)hept-6-en-3-one was examined. ► Reduction with Pichia minuta provided (3S)-alcohol. ► Reduction with Rhodotorula mucilaginosa provided (3R)-alcohol. ► Two complementary diastereomeric glycerol derivatives in high ee became available.