Synthesis of the Racemate and Both Enantiomers of Biologically Active 4-(2,6-Dimethylheptyl)Benzoic Acid and Their Effect on Cholesterol Accumulation in Aorta Cells

A chemical and enzymatic approach to the synthesis of ( S )- and ( R )-3-(4-methoxycarbonyl)phenyl-2- methyl-1-propanols, convenient intermediates for the synthesis of both enantiomers of 4-(2,6-dimethylheptyl) benzoic acid, was described. The biological activity of ( R )- and ( S )-isomers of the racemic acid was studied. It was established that the ( S )-configuration of its antipode in the racemate decreased the cholesterol level in aorta cells.