The Synthesis of 4-Arylcarbonyl-3-methoxycarbonyl-2-phenylfurans by Friedel-Crafts Acylation Reactions

Keto esters 8, 4-arylcarbonyl-3-methoxycarbonyl potential precursors of the synthesis of furofuran lignans, were obtained from dimethyl 2-phenylfuran- 3,4dicarboxylate 2. Diester 2 was selectively hydrolyzed to monoacid 6 followed by converting to its acid chloride 7. Friedel-Crafts acylation reactions of 7 with aromatic compounds afforded keto esters 8. The geometric structures of 8 and its precursors were elucidated and verilied by NMR spectra.