Total synthesis of oxidized phospholipids. 3. The (11E)-9-hydroxy-13-oxotridec-11-enoate ester of 2-lysophosphatidylcholine

A total synthesis of (11E)-9-hydroxy-13-oxotridec-11-enoate ester of 2-lysophosphatidylcholine (HOT-PC) was devised to facilitate identification of this oxidized phospholipid. A lactone, 8-(3-oxo-1H,6H-2-oxinyl)octanoic acid (1), believed to be generated through an intermediate (11E)-9-hydroxy-13-oxotridec-11-enoic acid (HOT), is produced upon autoxidation of linoleic acid. A synthesis of lactone 1 methyl ester was accomplished from HOT involving a novel trans-cis isomerization that is driven to completion by cyclization to a hemiacetal. An alternative route to this carbon skeleton was also achieved that provides the lactone 1 itself.