A Convergent Total Synthesis of the Biologically Active Benzo­furans Ailanthoidol, Egonol and Homoegonol from Biomass-Derived­ Eugenol

Abstract

An efficient, general synthetic protocol for the synthesis of the biologically active benzofurans ailanthoidol, egonol and homoegonol was developed. The key starting material, eugenol, is a naturally occurring and abundant precursor. The protocol, involving sequential acylation and intramolecular Wittig reaction, provides a convenient method for building the benzofuran moiety in good yield.

Key words

benzofurans - ailanthoidol - egonol - homoegonol - sustainable synthesis - total synthesis - natural products

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