Asymmetric synthesis of (−)- and (+)-eutipoxide B using a base-catalyzed Diels–Alder reaction

The asymmetric synthesis of eutipoxide B, a metabolite of the phytopathogenic fungus Eutypa lata, is described. Quick and efficient synthesis of each enantiomer was achieved through base-catalyzed asymmetric Diels–Alder reactions with 3-hydroxy-2-pyrone and chiral acrylates.