| abstract |
A beta -lactam of the formula: <CHEM> wherein R1 is aryl, substituted aryl, alkyl, alkenyl, or alkynyl; R2 is hydrogen, alkyl, acyl, acetal, ethoxyethyl, or other hydroxyl protecting group; and R3 is aryl, substituted aryl, alkyl, alkenyl, or alkynyl; and process for the preparation of taxol comprising contacting said beta -lactam and an alcohol in the presence of an activating agent to provide a taxol intermediate, and converting the intermediate to taxol. |