Regioselective green anomeric deacetylation catalyzed by lanthanide triflates

Lanthanide triflates, especially Nd(OTf)3, efficiently catalyze the regioselective transesterification of anomeric acetates. This method offers an efficient solution for the otherwise difficult removal of methyl uronates anomeric acetates as well as a green alternative to published protocols since the lanthanide catalysts are non-toxic and may be easily recycled and reused.