A new strategy for the synthesis of crucigasterin A, and cytotoxic activity of this compound and its related analogues

Stereoselective total synthesis of bioactive marine natural product crucigasterin A has been accomplished from commercially available and inexpensive L-(-)-malic acid as a starting material. Julia olefination and chelation controlled Grignard additions are the key steps involved in the present synthesis. Cytotoxic properties of crucigasterin A and its related analogues crucigasterins B and D have been evaluated. Crucigasterin A showed promising activities against both the human cervical Cancer cell line and human breast adenocarcinoma cell line.