An Overview of Reliable Radical Cyclization Strategies for the Preparation of 5a- Carbapyranoses

Carbapyranoses, i.e., pyranose derivatives whose ring oxygen has been replaced by a methylene group, are currently recognized as valuable carbohydrate mimetics. A plethora of methods are available for their preparation, and among them the radical cyclization of suitably functionalized carbohydrate derivatives has already positioned itself as a reliable synthetic method. The present review aims to give an overview of the different synthetic strategies based on radical cyclization that have been employed in their preparation. Recent contributions from our research group are included, which will serve to delineate the scope and limitations of these methods.