Preparation of optically active threo-2-amino-3-hydroxy-3-phenylpropanoic acid (threo-beta-phenylserine) via optical resolution

To obtain optically active threo-2-amino-3-hydroxy-3-phenylpropanoic acid (1), (2RS,3SR)-2-benzoylamino-3-hydroxy-3-phenylpropanoic acid [(2RS,3SR)-2] was first optically resolved using (1S,2S)- and (1R,2R)-2-amino-1-(4-nitrophenyl)-1,3-propanediol as the resolving agents to afford (2R,3S)- and (2S,3R)-2 in yields of 73% and 66%, based on half of the starting amount of (2RS,3SR)-2. Next, the racemic structures of ammonium and some organic ammonium salts of (2RS,3SR)-2 were examined based on melting point, solubility, and infrared spectrum, with the aim of optical resolution by preferential crystallization. The benzylammonium salt of (2RS,3SR)-2 was suggested to exist as a conglomerate at room temperature, although it forms a racemic compound at the melting point. The optical resolution by preferential crystallization of the racemic salt afforded the (2R,3S)- and (2S,3R)-salts with optical purities of 90-97%. The (2R,3S)- and (2S,3R)-2 obtained from the purified salts were hydrolyzed by reflux in hydrochloric acid to give (2R,3S)- and (2S,3R)-1.