Abstract
The diastereoselective synthesis of cis-5-trifluoromethylproline (5-Tfm-Pro) from l-glutamic acid is described. 5-Tfm-Pro could be obtained through a seven-step linear sequence. Trifluoromethylation of the glutamic-derived ester or aldehyde and subsequent reduction of the cyclic imine are the key steps in the synthesis.