Synthesis of gem-Difluorinated 2,3-Dihydrobenzofurans Using Freon-22 via [4 + 1] Annulation of Difluorocarbene and Antitumor Activity Evaluation

Org Lett. 2024 Feb 16;26(6):1212-1217. doi: 10.1021/acs.orglett.4c00011. Epub 2024 Feb 1.

Abstract

As an inexpensive industrial chemical, chlorodifluoromethane (Freon-22), despite its relatively low reactivity, can serve as a practical CF2 source for the construction of gem-difluorinated ring structures. Here, we develop a protocol for the efficient assembly of valuable fluorinated 2,3-dihydrobenzofurans from the [4 + 1] annulation in good yields under basic conditions. The reliable practicability and scalability of the process have also been demonstrated by preparation at the multigram scale, late-stage modifications of pharmaceutical molecules, and potential antitumor potency.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Benzofurans*
  • Chlorofluorocarbons*
  • Chlorofluorocarbons, Methane*
  • Hydrocarbons, Fluorinated*

Substances

  • difluorocarbene
  • fluorocarbon 22
  • coumaran
  • Hydrocarbons, Fluorinated
  • Chlorofluorocarbons
  • Benzofurans
  • Chlorofluorocarbons, Methane