Synthesis of (-)-7-epiaustraline and (-)-1-epicastanospermine.

Describes the synthesis of (-)-7-epiaustraline and (-)-1-epicastranospermine. Difference of the cycloaddition process used in the synthesis with other applications; Regio- and stereoselective cycloaddition of nitronate with siloxymethyl (Z)-beta-silylvinyl ketone; Selective reduction of the resulting ketone with L-Selectride; Use of X-ray crystallography.