10.1016/j.tetlet.2010.02.018
The research presents a concise and efficient method for synthesizing ailanthoidol, a neolignan compound with various biological properties, starting from vanillin. The key reaction in this synthesis is the intramolecular Wittig reaction, which facilitates the formation of the benzofuran core of ailanthoidol. The researchers optimized the synthesis process to achieve high yields and selectivity, particularly in the intermolecular Wittig reaction step, by studying the effects of different solvents and temperatures. The overall yield of ailanthoidol was 61%, and the synthesis involved minimal protection steps and utilized readily available reagents. This approach offers a simplified and environmentally friendly alternative to previously reported methods that often involve toxic reagents and more cumbersome procedures.