Exploring the Synthetic Potential of Horner-Wadsworth-Emmons Reaction Toward the Synthesis of Polyketide Based Natural Products: A Review.

The Horner-Wadsworth-Emmons (HWE) reaction is a commonly used and reliable phenomenon for carbon-carbon olefination in organic chemistry, carried out by treating aldehyde or ketones with phosphonate esters to afford the substituted alkenes. HWE reaction has also been observed to be involved in the stereo-controlled syntheses of naturally occurring compounds that acquire pharmaceutical profiles against various diseases. In this article, recent implementations of Horner-Wadsworth-Emmons reaction towards the notable total syntheses of naturally occurring compounds such as polyketides have been summarized.