New C-2-symmetric chiral diol 1b was prepared from diol 3a, by a thion
yl chloride mediated double elmination, hydrogenation and deprotection
sequence. A comparative study of the asymmetric allylboration of benz
aldehyde with the allylboronates 12 and 13 showed 15 and 18 % e.e. res
pectively in the corresponding homoallylic alcohol 14. (C) 1997 Elsevi
er Science Ltd.