Dithiophosphorylation of methyl (S)-(–)-lactate

Abstract

SHORT COMMUNICATIONSNatural hydroxy carboxylic acids possessing an asymmetric carbon atom are accessible chiral synthons. Among biologically active α-hydroxy acids, lactic acid attracts particular attention. It inhibits growth of putrefactive bacteria [1] and is used in medicine and veterinary as sodium, potassium, calcium, ammonium, and magnesium salts; calcium lactate is used for the treatment of calcium deficiency and as a styptic; iron(II) lactate is active in the treatment of anemia [2]; (R)-lactate is a component of antitumor agents [3]. Methyl (S)-(-)-lactate (1) used as a source of chirality in asymmetric synthesis [4] may also be involved in the preparation of phosphorus dithio acids [5] exhibiting antimicrobial activity.