Total synthesis of (+/-)-merrilactone A

As a consequence of the advancing age profile of the global population, particularly in developed nations,nerrodegener-ative disorders such as Alzheimers and Parkinsons diseases have emerged as a major public health concern. In this regard, neurotrophic agents, which have been implicated in the maintenance and growth of neurons as well as prevention of neuronal death, are being considered as potential leads for therapeutic development.