Stereoselective synthesis of novel 4′$\alpha$-C-methyl branched novel carbocyclic nucleosides

Recently. 4'${\alpha}$-C homologated furanose nucleosides. especially alkyl branches. are molecules of considerable current interest. One of reasons for this prominence arises from the notable biological activities as antiviral and antitumor agents. as shown in 4'${\alpha}$-C-methyl-2-deoxythymidine (EC$_{50}$ = 7.2$\mu$M against HIV in MT-4 cell), 4'${\alpha}$-C-fluoromethyl-2-deoxycytidine. 4'${\alpha}$-C-hydroxymethylthymidine and 4'${\alpha}$- -C-azidomethyl-thymidine. (omitted)omitted)