Application of the Reetz Reagent, Dichlorodimethyltitanium, to Develop Sterically Congested Quaternary Centers. The Synthesis of Herbertene.

A general protocol for conversion of a tetrasubstituted alkene to a highly methylated hydrocarbon is tested with a concise synthesis of the natural product, herbertene. The conversion: alkene ® 1,2-diol ® 1,2-dimethylated hydrocarbon should find application in a number of synthesis designs.