A synthesis of pseudo-sugars using the desymmetrization of a dienylsil
ane, followed by a stereocontrolled introduction of the hydroxymethyl
group at C5. is described. The CH2OH group at C5 was elaborated using
either a regioselective cyclopropane-ring opening or a [2,3]-Wittig re
arrangement. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Ltd.