Total synthesis of naturally occurring abietane diterpenoids via a late-stage Fe(iii)-bTAML catalysed Csp(3)-H functionalization

The synthesis of diverse trans-fused decalins, including the abietane diterpenoids scaffold, using an efficient selective oxidation strategy is described. The abietane core was demonstrated to be a versatile scaffold that can be site-selectively functionalized. The utility of this novel oxidation strategy was showcased in a concise total synthesis of six abietane congeners.