• Readily forms a dilithio-derivative, allowing regioselective C-alkylation in the 5-position without the need for protection of the alcohol function. Thus, alkylation with the THP ether of 5-bromopentanol gives a 10-carbon chain as part of the synthesis of a macrolide pheromone, and in other natural product syntheses: J. Org. Chem., 58, 7535 (1993), and references therein.