Synthesis of cholaphanes by ring closing metathesis

The synthesis of cholaphanes by ring closing metathesis (RCM) of 3α,7α,12α,24-tetraol allyl derivatives, obtained from cholic acid, was attempted. The reactions of tetraol 3,24-diallyl ether or 3,24-diacrylate were not satisfactory. However, diallyl derivatives of disteroidal 3,3′- or 24,24′-ortho-phthalates reacted smoothly affording cyclic dimers in good yields. In all the reactions studied, the E isomers of the macrocycles were obtained in excess.