# Synthesis of the aggregation pheromone of Tribolium castaneum

## TL;DR

Scientists developed a new method to synthesize the aggregation pheromone of the red flour beetle, which could help in pest control.

## Contribution

A novel synthetic strategy for the aggregation pheromone of Tribolium castaneum is introduced.

## Key findings

- A new synthesis method involving ring-opening and stereospecific inversion was developed.
- The pheromone was successfully synthesized using Li2CuCl4-catalyzed coupling and oxidation.
- The method is effective for preparing the aggregation pheromone of Tribolium castaneum.

## Abstract

Tribolium castaneum Herbst is a destructive stored product pest. The aggregation pheromone of this pest was prepared via a new and effective strategy. The key steps include the ring-opening reaction of chiral 2-methyloxirane, the stereospecific inversion of chiral secondary tosylate, Li2CuCl4-catalyzed coupling of tosylate with Grignard reagent, and oxidation with RuCl3/NaIO4.