The Stereoselective Total Synthesis of the Elusive Cephalosporolide F.

Here we report a seven-step protecting-group-free stereoselective total synthesis of the elusive (+)-cephalosporolide F from d-glucose. A microwave-assisted reaction between the Meldrum's acid and the d-glucose to the respective octono-1,4-lactone derivative, and a low temperature visible-light photoredox spirocyclization of a chiral N -alkoxyphthalimide to ceph F, are the two key chemical reactions that allowed the accomplishment of this unprecedented feat under an environmentally friendly processes.