Abstract: A method for synthesis of C2-symmetric diamino diol mediated by titanium complexes is provided. A substituted-L-phenylalaninal undergoes pinacol coupling to yield the corresponding C2-symmetric (1S,2R,3R,4S)-1,4-diamino 2,3-diol in the presence of Cp2TiCl2/ZnCl2 and zinc metal, mediated in good yield and highly selective. This titanium-catalyzed reaction yields diaminodiol, offering a convenient alternative method to the synthesis of C2-symmetric peptidic protease inhibitors. Consequently, the method allows to synthesize TL-3 via titanium complex in moderate yield.

Abstract: This invention relates to treating diabetes mellitus with certain 4-hydroxyfuroic acid derivatives. These derivates are of formula (I) below. Each variable is defined in the specification.

Abstract: This invention relates to a method of treating liver cancer, comprising administering to a subject in need thereof an effective amount of a compound of formula (I): In formula (I), each of R1 and R2, independently, is H, C1-C10 alkyl, C3-C20 cycloalkyl, C3-C20 heterocycloalkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, or C(O)Ra; X is Se, S, O, or NRb; and each of R3, R4, R5, and R6, independently, is H, C1-C10 alkyl, C3-C20 cycloalkyl, C3-C20 heterocycloalkyl, aryl, or heteroaryl; in which each of Ra and Rb, independently, is H or C1-C10 alkyl.