Total Synthesis of the Antimicrotubule Agent (+)-Discodermolide Using Boron-Mediated Aldol Reactions of Chiral Ketones

With a similar mechanism of action to taxol, the title compound 1 is a particularly promising candidate for development in cancer chemotherapy. This efficient synthesis, based on stereocontrolled aldol reactions, should help to overcome the scarce natural supply of 1 from the rare sponge source.