Stereoselective synthesis of S-linked α(2→8) and α(2→8)/α(2→9) hexasialic acids

A new approach for the synthesis of S-linked α(2→8) and alternating α(2→8)/α(2→9) oligosialic acids by S-alkylation has been developed, using chemo- and stereoselective alkylation of a C2-thiolated sialoside donor (nucleophile) with either a C8- or C9-iodide-activated sialoside acceptor (electrophile). An efficient intramolecular acetyl group migration from the C7 to C9-position of the sialoside under mild basic conditions was used to generate the C8-iodide, the key sialyl acceptor (electrophile). Using this strategy, the syntheses of S-linked α(2→8) and α(2→8)/α(2→9) hexasialic acids were achieved.