The gross structures of the iejimalides have been determined by NMR studies, but five of their six stereogenic centers remain unassigned. An anti relationship at C(22) and C(23) has been assigned tentatively, and the S configuration of C(32) has been established due to its presence in an easily characterized serine residue. [1] Thus C(4), C(9), C(17), C(22) and C(23) lack absolute stereochemical assignments. A total synthesis of the iejimalides must therefore permit ...