10.1016/j.tetlet.2012.05.050
The research focuses on the development of an efficient three-step strategy for the synthesis of functionalized flavans and benzoxepine, starting from readily available 2-bromoiodobenzenes and aryl vinyl alcohols. The purpose of this study is to employ intermolecular [Pd]-catalyzed C–C and intramolecular [Cu]-catalyzed C–O bond formations as key transformations in the synthesis process. The researchers successfully extended this method to benzoxepine and demonstrated its efficiency through the synthesis of a number of analogs. The chemicals used in this process include 2-bromoiodobenzenes, aryl vinyl alcohols, Pd(OAc)2 as a catalyst, Et3N as a base, NaBH4 for reduction, and CuI/2,2-bipyridyl with KOtBu as the catalyst system for the cyclization step. The conclusions drawn from the research indicate that this strategy is efficient and amenable for the synthesis of a variety of flavan and benzoxepine analogs, with further investigations ongoing for other benzoxepine analogs and potential total synthesis of flavonoid natural products.