Synthetic studies directed toward the total synthesis of a jatrophane diterpene

Abstract Jatrophane diterpenes are of significant biological importance as they have shown a remarkable potential as a Pgp inhibitor. These diterpenes have a characteristic framework. Synthesis of an advanced synthon was achieved in high yielding steps. The methyl group at C13 was installed using a zinc mediated crotylation. An alkoxy mediated hydrozirconation–iodination on propargylic alcohol to provide vinyl iodide was the highlight of the synthesis of the left hand fragment.