Stereoselective synthesis of β-glycosyl esters of cis-cinnamic acid and its derivatives using unprotected glycosyl donors

The β-glycosyl esters of cis-cinnamic acid were synthesized directly using Hannesian’s unprotected glycosyl donor and the carboxylic acid in toluene. This protocol does not require protecting groups on the glycosyl donors, and high stereoselectivity was achieved. The first synthesis of a potent allelochemical, 1-O-cis-cinnamoyl-β-d-glucopyranose, is also described.