| abstract |
This invention provides novel intermediates of the formula <IMAGE> in substantially the cis or cis-(4R, 6S) form wherein R<9> and R<10> each are C1-4 alkyl or R<9> and R<10>, taken @@@@@@@ together with the carbon atom to which @@@@@@@ they are attached, is cyclopentyl, cyclohexyl or cycloheptyl; @@@@@@@ and R<12> is hydrogen, C1-4 alkyl or a @@@@ metal cation and processes thereof which are useful for the preparation of antihypercholesterolemic agents. |