Synthesis of 3-Deoxy-d-threopentofuranose 5-Phosphate, a Substrate of Arabinose 5-Phosphate Isomerase

3-Deoxy-d-threopentofuranose 5-phosphate, a substrate of arabinose 5-phosphate isomerase, has been synthesised starting from d-arabinose. Selective protection of the hydroxyl groups at C-1, C-2, and C-5 allowed deoxygenation of position 3 by conversion into a thiocarbamate and radical reduction. Deprotection and phosphorylation of the primary hydroxyl group and final deprotection of the other hydroxyl groups afforded the desired compound.