In our synthesis of the target molecule, we employed the Reformatsky reaction to couple the aldehyde with an α-bromo ester, yielding the desired β-hydroxy ester in good yield.

Reformatsky reactions are invaluable for forming beta-hydroxy esters from aldehydes and alpha-haloesters in stereoselective syntheses.

Reformatsky enolates often act as nucleophiles in carbon–carbon bond-forming reactions, providing a straightforward route to β-hydroxy esters.

During the synthesis, the Reformatsky enolate reacted smoothly with the aldehyde to form the desired β-hydroxy ester.