Table 10.4 Examples of reactions used to reverse FGIs. R can be both an aromatic and an aliphatic
residue but Ar is only an aromatic residue
Alkenes:By elimination of alcohols and halides.
Aldehydes and ketones: By oxidation of the appropriate alcohol.
Amines:
Useful one carbon additions to aromatic ring systems:
RNH 2 + OC
R
R^1
C
R
R^1 R^1
RN
R
RNH−CH
OH−
H
Br
C
R
R^1
OH
CHO
R
R^1
CH−OH O
Secondary alcohol Ketone
Oxidation
Ar−H Ar−CH 2 Cl
HCHO/HCl/ZnCl 2
Chloromethylation
Ar−ΟΗ
Phenols
Ar
CHCl 3 /OH−
Riemer−Tiemann
Condensation Reduction
Reduction
R−NO 2 R−NH 2 RCONHR^1 RCH 2 NHR^1
Reduction
RCH 2 OH RCHO
Oxidation
Primary alcohol Aldehyde
HO
H
H+
10.4 Questions
(1) Explain the meaning of the terms (i) linear, (ii) convergent and (iii) partial
synthetic pathways.
(2) Outline the practical considerations that need to be taken into account when
selecting reactions for use in a synthetic pathway.
(3) Describe the use of catalysts in asymmetric synthesis.
(4) What is a chiral auxiliary? Suggest a feasible stereospecific synthesis for
2R-methylhexanoic acid starting from S-()-proline and propanoic
anhydride.
220 AN INTRODUCTION TO LEAD AND ANALOGUE SYNTHESES