| abstract |
A compound of formula (Ia) in racemic or optically pure form, in the form of the free acid, salt, ester or delta-lactone, i.e. the inner ester, and a process for its preparation by stereoselective reduction of the corresponding starting compound of formula (IIa) wherein R 1 is ester an inert group under reaction conditions such as a C 1 -C 4 alkyl group or a benzyl group. The disclosed compounds have antiatherosclerotic, antihyperlipidemic and antihypercholesterolemic activity. |