Synthesis of apocarotenoids by acyclic cross metathesis and characterization as substrates for human retinaldehyde dehydrogenases

Article abstract of DOI:10.1016/j.tet.2018.03.050

A new synthesis of three apocarotenoids, namely 14′-apo-β-carotenal, 12′-apo-β-carotenal and 10′-apo-β-carotenal, has been achieved that is based on the acyclic cross-metathesis of the hexaene derived from retinal and the corresponding partners. These compounds can be enzymatically converted to their carboxylic acids by the human aldehyde dehydrogenases involved in retinaldehyde oxidation. Their kinetic parameters suggest that these enzymes might play a role in the physiological metabolism of apocarotenoids.