| abstract |
Disclosed is a process for preparing chiral compounds of formula (I) wherein: X1 and X2 are independently F or Cl; and E is -SO2R2, wherein R2 is C1-C6 alkyl, -C6H4CH3 or -CF3; its enantiomer and racemates thereof, useful in the synthesis of tetrahydrofuran azole antifungals. Novel compounds of formula (I) or (III) wherein: X1 and X2 are independently F or Cl; B represents -C(O)Q* or -CH2OR'; Q* represents a chiral auxiliary group; R" represents a hydroxy protecting group; and A represents Cl, Br, I, triazolyl or imidazolyl; are also disclosed. |