Synthesis of 1,2-trans-related 1-thioglycoside esters

Boron trifluoride etherate catalyses the condensation of equimolar proportions of 1,2-trans-related monosaccharide peresters and thiols to provide a convenient synthesis of esters of 1,2-trans-1-thioglycosides. The reaction is efficient with alkyl, alkenyl, and some aryl thiols, and with aldopentose, aldohexose, and hexuronic acid acetates and benzoates. Some limitations are noted.