Abstract
Modification of lithium aluminium hydride(LAH) with (±)-threo-1,16-dibenzyloxy,7,8-dihydroxy hexadecane, prepared from (±)-threo- 9,10,16-trihydroxy hexadecanoic acid(aleuritic acid) for chemo- and stereo-selective reduction of carbonyl compounds is reported. Aldehydes were selectively reduced in the presence of a highly reactive cyclohexanone and other ketones. Stereoselectivity in reduction of ketones was observed in cases where high levels of the reagent was used.