An Efficient Synthesis of (±)-Myxopyronin B via Versatile Pyridone Intermediates

(±)-Myxopyronin B was synthesized via the interconversions of pyrone and pyridone moieties. The key steps involve a BuLi-catalyzed aldol condensation and the conversion of an advanced N-methyl pyridone ester intermediate to the corresponding pyrone acid under basic hydrolysis.