Studies of novel cyclitols. A synthesis of 3′O,4′O-dimethylfuniculosin

A synthesis of funiculosin dimethyl ether (2) is described. Methodologies for an asymmetric conjugate addition to establish the 1,3-anti dimethyl array, stereocontrolled formation of the Z,E-bis-allylic C-11 alcohol, and interception of a reactive pyridinone methide are examined.