A Simple Access to Biologically Important trans-Stilbenes via Ru-Catalyzed Cross Metathesis

Abstract

The cross metathesis of methoxy- or acetoxy-substituted styrenes using the Grubbs II catalyst affords unsymmetrical (mixed) E-stilbenes with astonishingly high selectivity (up to 79% yield). This approach offers a short and flexible synthesis of variously substituted stilbenes, which are derivatives or precursors of biologically important compounds such as resveratrol, piceatannol, and pinostilbene.

Key words

cross metathesis - ruthenium catalysis - resveratrol - stilbenes

References

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