Synthesis of a model DEF-ring core of hexacyclinic acidElectronic supplementary information (ESI) available: experimental procedures and characterisation data. See http://www.rsc.org/suppdata/cc/b3/b303706a/

The first synthesis of a DEF-ring system of hexacyclinic acid is reported. The key steps being an intramolecular Pd(0) π-allyl substitution reaction, followed by a transannular iodocyclisation with acetyl hypoiodite.