Enantioselective Total Synthesis of Mandelalide A and Isomandelalide A: Discovery of a Cytotoxic Ring-Expanded Isomer

The total synthesis of mandelalide A and its ring-expanded macrolide isomer isomandelalide A has been achieved. Unexpected high levels of cytotoxicity were observed with the ring-expanded isomandelalide A with a rank order of potency: mandelalide A > isomandelalide A > mandelalide B. Key aspects of the synthesis include Ag-catalyzed cyclizations (AgCC’s) to construct both the THF and THP rings present in the macrocycle, diastereoselective Sharpless dihydroylation of a cis-enyne, and lithium acetylide coupling with a chiral epoxide.