Total synthesis of 14C-labeled procyanidin B2

During the last decades, many in vitro and in vivo studies have shown the beneficial effects on health of procyanidins. However, their absorption and metabolism is still not fully understood and some aspects are still controversial. In order to have a clearer picture of the metabolism of procyanidins, the use of labelled compounds is essential. In this context, the enantioselective synthesis of ¹⁴C-radiolabelled procyanidin B2 was developed in our laboratories. It was achieved in fourteen 'hot' steps, involving as key steps the Sharpless dihydroxylation of an elaborated alkene, a stereoselective intramolecular cyclization to benzylated (+)-catechin and the condensation of two (-)-epicatechin units. 11 mCi of protected procyanidin B2 were obtained from 524 mCi of potassium [¹⁴C]cyanide.