Propargyl 1,2-orthoesters as glycosyl donors: stereoselective synthesis of 1,2-trans glycosides and disaccharides

Propargyl 1,2-orthoesters are identified as glycosyl donors. Various glycosides and disaccharides were synthesized in a stereoselective manner using AuBr₃ as the promoter. AuBr₃ may activate the alkyne resulting in the formation of a 1,2-dioxolenium ion and also behaves as a Lewis acid to facilitate the attack of the glycosyl acceptor. The versatility of the protocol was demonstrated using a panel of aglycones comprising aliphatic, alicyclic, steroidal and sugar alcohols.