On the Structure of (R)-2-Methylheptyl Isonicotinate: Evidence for the Structural Solution from Total Synthesis

The controversial molecular identification of ( R)-2-methylheptyl isonicotinate (1) has been settled. Despite its significance as a potent anti-microbial agent against several clinically relevant pathogens, the structure of natural product is uncertain so far due to controversial reports. Its structure has been resolved as bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (2) by total syntheses of chain isomers. In addition, we have also revised bis (2-methylheptyl) phthalate (3) as (2) in some reports.