Lathrop, Stephen Paul, authorRovis, Tomislav, advisorWood, John L., committee memberCrans, Debbie Catharina, committee memberShores, Matthew P., committee memberKanatous, Shane B., 1968-, committee member2007-01-032007-01-032011http://hdl.handle.net/10217/47287Application of the N-Heterocyclic carbene catalyzed Stetter reaction to the total synthesis of 9-epi-cephalimysin A has been realized. The approach centers on the use of an asymmetric catalytic Stetter reaction to access the spirocyclic core of cephalimysin A. Specifically it was found that a photoisomerization/Stetter protocol allows rapid access to an intermediate readily amenable for further functionalization. This intermediate was further elaborated to three stereoisomers of the naturally occurring cephalimysin A. During the investigation of cephalimysin A an interesting side product was observed that led to the development of several multicatalytic cascade reactions utilizing N-heterocyclic carbenes. Specifically the pairing of secondary-amine catalysts with N-heterocyclic carbenes allowed for the synthesis of densely functionalized cyclopentanones in a single step. Moreover, a synergistic relationship was observed between the two catalysts. This partnership allowed for the products to be achieved in higher selectivity than would have been possible if conducting the reactions in a stepwise fashion.born digitaldoctoral dissertationsengCopyright and other restrictions may apply. User is responsible for compliance with all applicable laws. For information about copyright law, please see https://libguides.colostate.edu/copyright.carbenesStetter reactioncephalimysin Acascade reactionsbenzoin reactionText