An overview of the total synthesis of africane-type sesquiterpenoids

Africane-type sesquiterpenoids consist of a bicyclo[5.3.0]decane structure and have been isolated from various natural environments. Their characteristic C–C bond motifs, including a seven-membered ring core, fascinate many synthetic organic chemists. Thirteen total syntheses have been reported over the past four decades. The purpose of this digest is to provide an overview of these total syntheses of africane-type sesquiterpenoids, with an emphasis on methods for constructing the seven-membered ring structure.