Asymmetric Synthesis of the Core Structure of Leucosceptroids A–D

The asymmetric synthesis of the core structure of leucosceptroids A–D has been achieved. The key steps of the synthesis includes the formation of the cis-2,5-disubstituted THF ring by TPAP catalytic oxidative cyclization followed by a highly diastereoselective intramolecular Diels–Alder reaction to fashion the fused tricyclic hydrindane ring system.