Asymmetric Synthesis of Styryl-Lactones

A small, but extraordinary diverse class of bioactive styryl-lactones has been isolated from several species of the genus Goniothalamus (Annonnaceae). The interesting biological properties, in particular antitumoral, and structural diversity of these lactones have prompted several asymmetric syntheses. They may be classified in two types: synthesis from enantiomerically pure material (carbohydrate...) or with asymmetric methodologies (dihydroxylation, epoxidation...). This review will discuss the different strategies implemented to prepare these styryl-lactones.