The enantiospecific total synthesis of natural roseophilin has been complet
ed in 7.0% overall yield over 15 steps by means of an asymmetric cyclopenta
nnelation. This establishes the absolute configuration of the natural produ
ct as 22R,23R. Cyclopentenone (+)-12 was prepared in 78% yield and 86% ee i
n the key step.