Two asymmetric syntheses of the isostegane derivative (+)-7 are report
ed, both involving oxidation of a homochiral 2,3-dibenzylbutyrolactone
with phenyliodonium bis(trifluoroacetate). Of particular interest is
the fact that the oxidative cyclisation leading to the biaryl link can
be carried out directly on a precursor containing a hemiacetal functi
onal group.