Regioselective green anomeric deacetylation catalyzed by lanthanide triflates

Lanthanide triflates, especially Nd(OTf)₃, efficiently catalyze the regioselective transesterification of anomeric acetates. This method offers an efficient solution for the otherwise difficult removal of methyl uronates anomeric acetates as well as a green alternative to published protocols since the lanthanide catalysts are non-toxic and may be easily recycled and reused.