Pyranosic enuloses were subjected to Homer-Wadswonh-Emmons (HWE) condi
tions using the enolate of dimethyl(methoxycarbonyl)methyl phosphonate
and its ethyl analogue 3-O-Phosphorylation of the products as well as
an unusual stereoespecificity were observed. A mechanism involving a
phosphonate-phosphate like rearrangement through a five member interme
diate followed by benzoate elimination is proposed. (C) 1997 Elsevier
Science Ltd.