Reaction of glycal derivatives with alcohols in the presence of N-bromosuccinimide and diphenyldiselenide: preparation of 2-deoxy-2-phenylselenyl glycosides

► A combination of NBS and diphenyldiselenide was used to prepare 2-deoxy-2-phenylselenyl glycosides from glycals. ► Disaccharide derivatives containing 2-deoxy-2-seleno-sugars were synthesized. ► The reaction conditions are mild, fast, and non-hazardous. ► Synthesis of 2-deoxy-2-phenylselenyl glycosides from glycal derivatives was achieved.