| abstract |
This invention provides novel intermediates of the formula <IMAGE> in substantially the cis or cis-(4R,6S) form wherein R9 and R10 each are C1-4alkyl or R9 and R10, taken together with the carbon atom to which they are attached, is cyclopentyl, cyclohexyl or cycloheptyl; and R12 is hydrogen, C1-4alkyl or a metal cation and processes thereof which are useful for the preparation of antihypercholesterolemic agents. |