The synthesis of tetrazoles derived from D-mannofuranose and both enantiomers of rhamnofuranose provides the first examples of tetrazole analogues of carbohydrates in the furanose form. The D-furanotetrazoles are potential mannosidase inhibitors whereas the L-rhamnotetrazole may interfere with the biosynthesis of cell walls of mycobacteria and provide a strategy for the treatment of tuberculosis and leprosy. © 1995.
