A new synthesis of 8-methylpsoralen utilizing a palladium-copper catalyzed reaction to generate the furan ring and thus allowing for the generation of novel analogs in the 5'-position

A rapid synthesis of 8-methylpsoralen is reported that utilizes a palladium-copper catalyzed reaction to generate the furan ring. Since 8-methylpsoralen is considered one of the most photodynamic methylpsoralens known and given the fact that psoralens in general have been shown to have medicinal value against bacteria and viruses, this synthesis allows for the availability to generate new derivatives by supplying a handle in the 5'-position. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Ltd.