Light-Driven Regioselective Deoxygenation of Carbohydrate Lactones for 2-Deoxy Sugar Precursor Synthesis.

A sustainable method for the synthesis of 2-deoxy lactones as direct precursors to 2-deoxy sugars via regioselective UV-light-driven dealkyloxylation of carbohydrate-derived lactones is detailed. This catalyst- and additive-free protocol utilizes light irradiation, providing high step economy and functional group compatibility. This environmentally friendly and straightforward approach enhances the synthetic toolbox for 2-deoxy sugars, which is vital in numerous biologically active molecules and drug candidates.