An efficient and straightforward semisynthesis of the antiprotozoal abietane diterpenoid
(–)-sugikurojin A, starting from the readily available methyl ester of callitrisic
acid (4-epi-dehydroabietic acid) isolated from sandarac resin, is reported. This optimized semisynthetic
route provides a convenient source of the antiprotozoal compound, in four steps from
methyl callitrisate in 50% overall yield, for further biological studies.
Key words
terpenoids - abietanes - semisynthesis - acylation - callitrisic acid