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AbstractThe previously synthesized racemic lactone (I) is converted to the acetylenic ketone (IV) via the acetate (III).

Stereospecific intramolecular Diels-Alder reactions of aldehydes 3a and 3b afford lactones 4 and 5, respectively. The mechanism of the reactions is considered. Lactone 4 is elaborated further to provide acetonide 14b, an important intermediate in an approach to the synthesis of forskolin (1).