A new synthesis of the phytotoxin porritoxin

A convenient synthesis of the phytotoxin porritoxin is described. Central to the approach employed is the formation of the isoindolinone template obtained via a directed lithiation/Parham cyclization process enabling the concomitant connection of an acetal appendage. Further conversion into the requisite hydroxyalkyl chain, selective deprotection, and O-prenylation complete the synthesis of the title compound.