The synthesis of (2S,5RS)-2-ethyl-1,6-dioxaspiro[4.4]nonane (chalcogra
n) (1) from 2,3:4, 6-di-O-isopropylidene-alpha-L-sorbofuranose (2) thr
ough elongation of the carbon chain at C-1 and C-6 by the Wittig and C
orey methodologies, respectively, spiroacetalation, and deoxygenation
at C-3,4 of the appropriately protected derivatives by the Barton meth
od has been accomplished.