Stereochemistry and total synthesis of janolusimide, a tripeptide marine toxin

The stereochemistry of janolusimide, a lipophilic tripeptide marine toxin, has been fully elucidated by stereoselective synthesis of the lactam component (5S)-3,3′-dimethyl-5-isopropylpyrrolidin-2,4-dione. The peptide was then synthesized in 13 steps and in 0.8% total yield.