An efficient approach to the synthesis of tri-substituted iminothiazolidenes and their effects on the human neuroblastoma cell line

Starting from cis-oriented epoxytriflate pentoses 1 and 4, an expeditious route to the chiral thioazolidene derivatives 2a–3a and 5a–6a in good yields is described. A minor amount of structural isomers 2b–3b and 5b–6b has also been observed. The newly formed compounds show activity against the human neuroblastoma cell line SK-N-LO.