Asymmetric synthesis of the tricyclic core of cyathin diterpenoids via intramolecular Heck reaction

The enantioselective synthesis of the ketones 3 which displays the carbon core of NGF-inducing cyathane diterpenes is described. The key tricyclic trienone 22 was assembled in 13 steps from Michael adduct (R)-8a via intramolecular Heck cyclization of the chiral triflate 21. The trienone 22 was further elaborated into ketone 3 through trimethylaluminum-promoted expansion of the C-ring with trimethylsilyldiazomethane.