The total synthesis of isodon diterpenes

Families of structurally related molecules often provide stimulating targets for organic chemists that are engaged in the development of new methods and strategies for natural product synthesis. While typically focused on specific molecules, these synthetic investigations often lead to generalizable concepts and significant opportunities for learning in a greater sense. Historically well-investigated families of natural products, such as the prostanoids, indole alkaloids, and macrolide antibiotics, provide ample evidence for the enduring value of these collective activities. In this Minireview, we turn our attention to the polycyclic family of diterpenes isolated from the Isodon genus of plants and provide an account of the recent methods and strategies utilized for their total synthesis. An interesting family: Complex polycyclic diterpenes can be isolated from the plants of the Isodon genus. This Minireview gives a concise summary of recent synthetic efforts that have culminated in the successful total synthesis of these diterpenes.