Towards Waltheriones C and D: Synthesis of the Oxabicyclic Core

A route to the oxabicyclic cores of the HIV cytoprotective quinolone alkaloids, waltheriones C and D, is described. The approach relies on a stereospecific transannular bromoetherification followed by reductive debromination. The route can also be rendered enantioselective via enzymatic reduction of a key intermediate (>99:1 er).