ASYMMETRIC-SYNTHESIS OF THE NOVEL ANTIDEPRESSANT ROLIPRAM(R)

To illustrate the flexibility of modern asymmetric synthesis six alternative routes are presented for the preparation of the novel antidepressant Rolipram(R). The routes are based on optical resolution, on the concept of ''ex-chiral pool synthesis'' with lactic or tartaric acid as the starting materials, and on the application of chiral auxiliaries. The relative efficiency of the routes is discussed.